Day 1: Historical Splendors and Breathtaking Views
Morning: Goryokaku Tower and Park – Start your day at the star-shaped Goryokaku fort. Visit the Goryokaku Tower for a panoramic view of the historic site surrounded by cherry blossoms (seasonal). It’s a perfect blend of history and natural beauty.
Afternoon: Morning Market – Head to the bustling Morning Market. Indulge in fresh seafood and local specialties like Hakodate’s famous squid dishes. Many stores offer samples at the front for a few dollars. We tried their fresh uni, clams, and squid during our walk-through in the market. This is also a great place to purchase Omiyage (souvenir), something you can only buy! It’s a foodie’s paradise and a window into the local culinary culture, such as Shio Ramen at Ajisai Ramen and delicious Uni at Uni Murakami.
Early Evening: Dinner at Kira – Before heading to Mount Hakodate, enjoy dinner at Kira, located on the hill with a great ocean view. They serve a course meal, Kaiseki, with a European twist, Hakodate style. We had a great dinner and service at Kira in a private room upstairs looking over a beautiful sunset and night lights through the meal.
Night: Mount Hakodate Ropeway – End your day with a trip up the Ropeway. The summit provides one of the world’s most spectacular night views, where the city lights create a mesmerizing scene against the dark sky. The temperature on the top of the mountain could be significantly lower even in summer. Bring your jacket and take your time to get a perfect shot of the iconic view.
Day 2: Cultural Immersion and Scenic Exploration: Discovering the Charms
Morning: Trappistine Convent – Begin your second day with a peaceful visit to the Trappistine Convent, known for its serene environment and beautiful architecture. It’s a slice of European charm in Japan. We enjoyed their famous Trappistine Cookies!
Afternoon: Motomachi District – Stroll through the historic Motomachi District, lined with charming western-style buildings, churches, and consulates. Don’t miss the Russian Orthodox Church and Old Public Hall of Hakodate Ward for a glimpse into the city’s past.
Evening: Hakodate Bay Area – Conclude your trip at the scenic Hakodate Bay Area. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the waterfront, and explore the Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse. The warehouse contains various stores highlighting local culture and cuisine.
We highly recommend Sushidokoro Minami, Michelin-starred restaurant, to try their Sushi course. The chef goes to the fish market every morning and create the dinner dishes, filled with seasonal and local ingredients. We went there twice in winter and summer, and had wonderful meals both times.
This two-day itinerary in Hakodate offers a blend of scenic beauty, historical exploration, and culinary delights. Hakodate, with its unique attractions and warm hospitality, is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.