Itineraries Discover the charms of Southern Hokkaido Introducing the myriad attractions in and around Hakodate’s port city

Dine and shop at these restored warehouses

Built during the Meiji Era when Hakodate was among the first Japanese ports to open to international trade, these waterfront red brick warehouses (built in 1909) have been revived as a retro commercial complex where you can find restaurants, a beer hall, and plenty of trendy souvenir shops.

A Western-influenced historic neighbourhood

This hilly neighbourhood is full of historic architecture like churches and consulate buildings that once catered to foreign residents some 150 years ago. Today, this Western-influenced hood retains its elegance with sweeping views of the port. Head to the popular "Soft Serve Ice Cream Street" for a unique sweet treat!

For one of the best nighttime views in Japan

At 334m high, this wooded mountain is located at the southern end of the peninsula that boasts spectacular views of Hakodate and its two coastlines on clear days. Its nighttime views are included among Japan’s three best sightseeing spots, and it’s accessible via ropeway, bus, or car.

A charming seaside city with a unique history

Hokkaido’s third largest city and famous for its night views, Hakodate was one of the first Japanese harbour cities to open to international trade during the Meiji Era. As such, this coastal city experienced notable influence from overseas, and counts a Western residential district and fort among its attractions.

For a super-fresh seafood dining experience

Boasting about 250 stores offering a variety of seafood souvenirs, a must-try is a fresh seafood rice bowl from Donburi Yokocho Ichiba, an arcade with some 20 eateries. Try your hand at squid fishing from the purpose-built tanks and bring your catch to a restaurant to have it prepared as sashimi!

A picturesque park with lakes and islands

The park is famous for its picturesque lakes dotted with islands, all in the shadow of Mt. Komagatake. Onuma turns into a white wonderland in winter, where you can go horseback riding, catch smelt fish on a frozen lake, or hop on a snowmobile-led sled ride through the snowy landscape.

Bathe in a hot spring resort by the sea

The seaside hot spring town of Yunokawa Onsen boasts an array of hotels and inns with ocean-view baths, as well as a botanic garden with bathing snow monkeys. At night, the coast is dotted with the twinkling lights of boats fishing for squid for which Hakodate is renowned.

Pray for luck at this hilltop shrine with red torii gates

With a striking entrance lined with bright red torii gates, this is the only Inari shrine in Hokkaido and it’s believed to bring fortune and luck for relationships. Founded by a priest from Sapporo, this hilltop shrine is located on Mt. Moiwa and dates from 1907.

Check out the heart of Sapporo

Situated in the middle of Sapporo is Odori Park, which stretches over 12 city blocks and is the main site for the renowned Sapporo Snow Festival in winter. On one end of the park is the Sapporo TV Tower, popular for its observation deck with views of the city.

Indulge in Sapporo’s famous miso ramen

Sapporo is famous for its miso ramen, and you can sample this delicacy at one of the 17 restaurants – each with its own taste and thickness of noodle – that line this street. There are also other types of ramen you can try, including shoyu, salt, and ones featuring Hokkaido crab.