Hakodate Park - Hokkaido

Hakodate Park (函館公園) is a vast public park known for spring cherry blossoms, theme park rides & a city museum. It is located at 17 Aoyagi-cho, Hakodate City in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan.

函館公園
Hakodate Park

Hakodate Park Details

Opened in 1879, Hakodate Park is one of Japan’s most iconic urban parks, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. This beloved park holds a special place in the hearts of the local community and is a testament to the collaboration between the citizens and the authorities during its creation. British Consul Eusden’s words, "Just as sick people need hospitals, healthy people need a place to rest," resonated deeply with the people of Hakodate, prompting them to contribute both funds and labor to bring this park to life. As a result, Hakodate Park is considered one of the most unique parks in Japan.

Hakodate Park - Hakodate City, Hokkaido Prefecture
Hakodate Park - Hakodate City, Hokkaido Prefecture

The park’s design has remained largely unchanged since its opening, preserving its historical charm. A top highlight of the park is its breathtaking cherry blossoms in the spring, where around 360 cherry trees bloom, transforming the landscape into a pink paradise. Whether you're a local or a traveler, Hakodate Park is a must-visit destination during cherry blossom season for an unforgettable scenic experience.

Hakodate Park's ground maps
Hakodate Park Guide Map

Pictures around Hakodate Park

展望台
Hakodate Park's Observation Deck

Hakodate Park's Observation Deck

Hakodate Park as seen from the observation deck

Hakodate Citizen Charter Monument
Hakodate Citizen Charter Monument

噴水塔
Fountain Tower (噴水塔)

Hakodate Park

函館公園碑
Central Square and Hakodate Park Monument

中央噴水広場
Central Square Fountain

函館公園こどものくに
Children's World

Hakodate Park

Former Hakodate City Museum Building No. 1
Former Hakodate City Museum Building No. 1

Hakodate Park

Hakodate Park

坂本龍馬像
Statue of Sakamoto Ryōma

I saw this cute cat loitering around the park
I saw this cute cat loitering around the park

Pathway up to the observatory from Central Square
Pathway up to the observatory from Central Square

Hakodate Park isn’t just a haven for nature lovers; it also houses several significant cultural landmarks. The Former Hakodate Museum No. 1 and No. 2, recognized as tangible cultural properties of the prefecture, stand proudly within the park, offering visitors a glimpse into the region’s rich heritage. Also located in the park are the Hakodate City Museum’s main building, the Former Hakodate City Library, and the first animal breeding facility in Hokkaido, adding layers of history and cultural richness to the park's appeal.

Hakodate City Pokemon manhole cover
Hakodate City Pokemon manhole cover

Hakodate Pokemon manhole cover found in Hakodate Park
Hakodate Pokemon manhole cover found in Hakodate Park

At present, Hakodate Park is also a must-visit destination for Pokemon manhole cover fanatics as the Hakodate City Pokemon manhole cover is installed on the pathway near the Former Hakodate City Museum Building No. 2 and the Hakodate City Central Library Archives (formerly Hakodate City Library). It features Alolan Vulpix and Togekiss.

Team Nicerio visits Hakodate Park

Team Nicerio visits Hakodate Park

Team Nicerio visits Hakodate Park

Team Nicerio visits Hakodate Park

Team Nicerio visits Hakodate Park

Team Nicerio visits Hakodate Park

Team Nicerio visits Hakodate Park

Team Nicerio visits Hakodate Park

Team Nicerio visits Hakodate Park

Team Nicerio visits Hakodate Park

During the second day of our 3-day Birthday Road Trip on April 2, 2023, my family and I visited Hakodate Park for the first time. It marked my 517th day in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme. One of our objectives for the trip was to locate the Hakodate City Pokémon manhole cover—a fun and unique goal that aligns with our broader mission of finding and photographing all 42 Pokémon-themed manhole covers scattered across Hokkaido. This visit was a part of our ongoing Hokkaido 179 travel goal, where we aim to explore and experience every municipality in Hokkaido. The Pokémon manhole covers have become a special part of our adventure, adding a playful and memorable twist to our travels.


Hakodate Park Admission Fee

It’s FREE to enter and explore Hakodate Park. However, some parts of the park like the city museum and the Children’s World have admission fees.

Hakodate Park Operating Hours

Hakodate Park is open 24/7, allowing visitors to enjoy its beauty at any time. However, some of the park's facilities have varying operating hours, so checking the specific hours for each attraction before planning your visit is advisable.

Why visit Hakodate Park?

Hakodate Park, established in 1879, is a historic urban park known for its stunning cherry blossoms in spring and cultural landmarks like the Hakodate Museum and City Library. With scenic walking paths, wildlife, and a peaceful atmosphere, it’s a perfect spot for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and those seeking relaxation. Aside from that, if you are a Pokemon manhole “collector, " this place should be at the top of your list in Hakodate City.


Getting to Hakodate Park

 

There are various ways to get to Hakodate Park, and this is the route I'm familiar with:

From Hakodate Station, exit and walk to the Hakodate Asaichi-mae bus stop. Take Bus No. 3 heading to Hakodate Sta.-Mae bus stop. Then, alight at the Ropeway-mae bus stop. From there, it's just a short walk to Hakodate Park.

Travel time: 20 minutes

Fare: 250 yen

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