10 Things to Do in Hakodate City
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| 10 Things to Do in Hakodate City |
Hakodate (函館市) is a city situated in the Oshima Subprefecture of Hokkaido, Japan. The city is one of the main cities of Hokkaido. It’s also the closest city to Honshu. In 1454, during the Muromachi period, Tsugaru lord Kono Masamichi built a mansion, Usukeshi-yakata, on the northern slope of Mount Hakodate. The area came to be called "Hakodate" due to its box-like shape, with some suggesting the name originated from the Ainu word "usukeshi," meaning "edge of the inlet" or "bay." Another theory ties the name to the Ainu word "hakuchashi," meaning "shallow fort."
In 1869, Ezo became Hokkaido, and Hakodate was renamed. One theory suggests that Higashikuze Michiyoshi, head of the Hokkaido Colonization Commission, disliked the kanji character "箱" (box) and altered it. However, the Hakodate City History indicates that as late as 1876, both "箱館" and "函館" were used interchangeably, suggesting the renaming occurred later than 1869.
For those planning to visit this popular city
to check what it has to offer, here are the 10 Things to Do in Hakodate City:
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| Hakodate City manhole covers |
1. Take a picture of the manhole covers of Hakodate City. So far, I have seen 2 unique manhole covers which are common around the
city. The colored version is located in front of Goryokaku Tower.
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| Hakodate City Pokemon manhole cover |
2. Take a picture of the Hakodate CityPokemon manhole cover. It is located in Hakodate Park. It features Alolan
Vulpix and Togekiss.
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| Hakodate Gokoku Shrine |
3. Pay a visit and offer prayers at
Hakodate Gokoku Shrine (函館護国神社).
This beautiful shrine is dedicated to those who died in the Boshin War. The
shrine doesn’t offer any goshuin stamps but you can avail of omamori or charms
here.
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| Hakodate Park |
4. Take a leisurely stroll around Hakodate
Park (函館公園), a perfect spot for
relaxation and family fun. This park is not only ideal for a peaceful walk, but
it’s also one of the best places to bring your children, thanks to the
Children’s World, which features a variety of kiddie rides. In addition to its
recreational offerings, the park is home to historical buildings and museums,
including the Hakodate City Museum, making it a great destination for both
enjoyment and learning.
Hakodate Russian Orthodox Church
5. Stroll around Hakodate City Motomachi
Suehiro-cho Traditional Building Preservation District (函館市元町末広町伝統的建造物群保存地区) and visit the historical buildings there like the Russian Orthodox
Church, Hakodate St. John’s Church, and Old Public Hall of Hakodate Ward to
name a few.
Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse
6. Head over to the Kanemori Red Brick
Warehouse (金森赤レンガ倉庫) for a unique
shopping experience. This charming shopping mall is housed in a beautifully
restored 1869 red brick warehouse, giving it a historic yet vibrant atmosphere.
The Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse is one of Hakodate's most iconic buildings,
offering a variety of stores where you can shop for local goods, souvenirs, and
more, making it a must-visit spot for both shopping and sightseeing.
Lucky Pierrot
7. Make sure to dine at one of the 17
branches of Lucky Pierrot (ラッキーピエロ)
around Hakodate. Each store has its unique theme, adding a fun twist to your
dining experience. Be sure to try their famous Asian Chicken Burger and Chinese
Chicken Omurice, two local favorites. It’s said that no trip to Hakodate is
complete without a meal at Lucky Pierrot, making it a must-visit spot for food
lovers.
Goryokaku Tower
8. Make your way up to the Goryokaku Tower
(五稜郭タワー) for stunning panoramic
views of Hakodate, with a particularly breathtaking sight of the star-shaped
Goryokaku Fort below. No matter the season, a visit to the tower offers an unforgettable
experience, allowing you to admire the city’s beauty from above at any time of
year.
Goryokaku
9. Take a trip to Goryokaku (五稜郭跡) and explore its expansive grounds,
especially beautiful during spring when the hundreds of sakura trees are in
full bloom. While you're at the center of the fort, be sure to visit the
Hakodate Magistrate's Office (箱館奉行所), which now functions as a museum, offering a glimpse into the
area's rich history.
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| Night view from Mt. Hakodate |
10. Take a ride on the Mt. Hakodate Ropeway (函館山ロープウェイ) and experience the breathtaking night view from the observatory at the summit of Mt. Hakodate (函館山). From the mountaintop platform, you'll enjoy panoramic views of the city, bay, and strait, making it a must-visit spot for stunning vistas, especially as the city lights sparkle at night.
I hope my list of the 10 Things to Do in Hakodate City gave you an idea and inspiration to visit this popular city in the Oshima Subprefecture of Hokkaido.
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