Actually, it was just out of curiosity—why did I want to “get lost” and travel to one of the port cities with many tourist attractions located in the corner of Hokkaido Island called Hakodate?
Initially, I had planned to visit Hokkaido because I was always intrigued by a character named Suneo, who constantly boasted about his winter vacations in Hokkaido to Nobita.
Yes, I was captivated by what Suneo showed Nobita.
As a result, in my imagination, Hokkaido became this fantastic island for vacationing.
So, I included Hokkaido Island in my list of places to visit during my 13-day backpacking trip to Japan.
Initially, I preferred heading to Sapporo, which is more centrally located on the island.
However, after being shocked by the cold in Akita City, I decided to skip Sapporo.
I was afraid of freezing, especially since I came to Japan somewhat underdressed.
A Fun Port City to Visit During Your Vacation in Japan
Seafood, trams, and a small yet delightful city.
These are the key elements I can define about this city on Hokkaido Island.
Although I call it a small city, it is actually the third largest city on Hokkaido Island.
Yet, because the city feels so quiet, I felt it resembled a small town in the middle of the mountains, like Kakunodate.
I’m also a bit surprised why this city isn’t as crowded as others like Tokyo.
After all, Hakodate is a port city!
Located by the Sea, Near the Tsugaru Strait
Hakodate is indeed located right by the sea, specifically the Tsugaru Strait, which separates it from the nearby Honshu Island.
This isn’t just an ordinary port city; it’s also a delightful travel destination in Japan.
Especially since this city was the first to open up to the world after the isolation period of the Edo era.
Hakodate is a port city where the Japanese atmosphere has mingled with Western influences.
That’s why I wasn’t surprised to see many buildings with Western architecture while walking around.
In fact, Hakodate even has a fort with a very Western design!
Visit Goryokaku Fort in Hakodate
It’s called Goryokaku Fort. Of course, I visited that fort! :D. It’s free! No charge!
So, I saved some Yen.
Another reason is that there are many cherry trees around the fort, like in Kitakami.
However, since I arrived too early, most of the trees hadn’t bloomed yet.
Instead of seeing blooming cherry blossoms, I saw many people picnicking and jogging around the fort.
Explore Hakodate by Tram
In addition to the Western-style buildings, the tram system as a mode of transport to get around Hakodate made me feel like I wasn’t in Japan.
I felt more like I was in Europe or in old Jakarta when trams were still around.
Trams are common in Europe, right? Or so they say.
It seemed like the tram only passed through the city center, but it actually goes through all the strategic places in Hakodate!
For example, the hot spring foot baths, Goryokaku Fort, the starting point for Mount Hakodate, and many more.
Coincidentally, I also bought a one-day pass for unlimited tram rides in Hakodate.
So, sometimes I would get off and on at every stop just for fun.
Without this one-day pass, every ride required taking a small paper with a number when boarding first.
Then, when getting off, I paid according to the number, which I still don’t fully understand.
Usually, I just handed over some loose Yen, and the tram driver helped me choose the coins to put into a machine.
Sorry, but I was confused about the payment method.
That’s why I bought a one-day pass for the next day.
Using the one-day pass was easier, just show it like you would with a Japan Rail Pass.
Although it’s near the sea, the landscape of Hakodate is not very flat.
It tends to be hilly, getting steeper as you move away from the sea.
A bit like San Francisco, which I really want to visit, minus the cable cars.
This unique landscape made me excited to explore on foot.
Even though my energy was running low from all the walking since landing at Haneda Airport.
Speaking of walking in Hakodate, I made sure to visit the fish market and the port.
Believe me, there are many surprises there! From red crabs that are outrageously priced, to giant squids that are quite a sight.
There’s also a museum made from a passenger ship that was once used as the main transport to Honshu Island.
Take the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Hakodate via the Seikan Tunnel
Now, the ship is no longer in use, as there’s now an express train and the underwater Seikan Tunnel.
The trip from Hakodate to Aomori and vice versa takes just about two hours.
In fact, there’s now a Shinkansen line that goes directly to Hakodate.
A port city like Hakodate is my dream city.
It seems I always feel at home in cities near the sea and not too crowded.
Who knows when I’ll get back to this city or even find something similar in Indonesia.
Who knows, but I always hope that I’ll reunite with my dream city somewhere on this earth.
The Nighttime Atmosphere in Hakodate
Do you know where Hakodate is? Yes, it’s in the northern part of Japan, specifically on Hokkaido Island.
I never imagined I’d travel all the way to this island just to see the nighttime atmosphere of Hakodate.
Especially the best nighttime view from the top of Mount Hakodate.
The night view of this city is truly amazing, just like in the photos in this post.
Of course, there’s one more thing that interests me.
But the nighttime atmosphere of Hakodate is definitely one of the strongest reasons for me to end up here alone.
Falling in Love with Hakodate at Night!
As I mentioned earlier, the best part of this city is the view from the top of the mountain at the southern end of the city.
Yes, Mount Hakodate (函館山, Hakodateyama) is a 334-meter-high mountain.
This forested mountain attracts every visitor, including me.
On clear days and nights, you can see breathtaking views here.
And, the nighttime view from Mount Hakodate is among the top three night views in Japan.
There are three ways to get to Mount Hakodate.
You can take the ropeway, a bus, or even drive yourself.
I took the ropeway or cable car.
It’s quite expensive, but since I didn’t know I could take the bus, I had to accept it.
I ended up paying 1160 Yen for a round trip.
If I had taken the bus, it would have been cheaper, only 400 Yen one way.
Regretful, isn’t it? Well, it was worth it for the amazing view I got to see.
Fun Things to Do in Hakodate
Hakodate, a port city located at the southern tip of Hokkaido, Japan, offers many exciting activities and interesting places to visit.
From beautiful views to delicious food, here are some must-try activities when visiting Hakodate:
1. Enjoy the View from Mount Hakodate
Mount Hakodate is one of the best spots to enjoy the city’s view, famous for its nighttime beauty.
Take the cable car to the top of the mountain and enjoy the stunning cityscape with the glittering city lights.
2. Visit Goryokaku Park
Goryokaku Park is a star-shaped fort built in the 19th century.
Today, the fort is a popular park to enjoy cherry blossoms in the spring.
Don’t forget to go up the Goryokaku Tower to see the fort from above!
3. Explore the Historic Motomachi District
Motomachi is a historic district in Hakodate known for its European-style buildings.
Stroll through this area while admiring churches, old embassies, and European-style houses.
Be sure to capture some memorable moments here!
4. Try Hokkaido Crab
Hakodate is famous for its delicious Hokkaido crab.
Visit a local crab restaurant and enjoy fresh and tasty crab dishes like taraba crab or hanasaki crab.
5. Shop at Hakodate Morning Market
Hakodate Morning Market is the perfect place to find souvenirs and enjoy fresh food.
The market offers a variety of local products, including vegetables, fruits, fish, and other Hokkaido specialties.
Don’t forget to try the various dishes available here!
6. Visit Hakodate Museum Of Art
Hakodate Museum Of Art is an art museum located in Hakodate, Hokkaido, Japan.
The museum is housed in a building constructed in 1910, which was once a residence of a wealthy businessman.
The building was converted into a museum in 1961.
The museum’s collection includes modern and traditional art, featuring works by Japanese and foreign artists.
The collection includes paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and textiles.
The museum also has a temporary exhibition space showcasing works by renowned Japanese and international artists.
In addition to its interesting art displays, the museum offers visitors beautiful views of the garden behind the building.
The garden features a pond and several interesting art sculptures.
7. Visit Yunokawa Onsen
After a day of exploring, make sure to visit Yunokawa Onsen, a famous hot spring in
Hakodate.
Soaking in the natural hot water will relax and refresh you.
These are some exciting activities you can try when visiting Hakodate.
Make sure to plan your trip well to enjoy all the experiences this city has to offer!
Happy exploring!