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| Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden |
Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden Details
Located in the picturesque Yunokawa area of
Hakodate, Japan, the Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden is a unique blend of
natural beauty, wildlife, and relaxation. Opening its doors in July 1970, the
garden has become a favorite destination for nature lovers and those seeking a
peaceful retreat. With its lush tropical plants, interactive monkey mountain,
and rejuvenating hot spring experiences, it offers a memorable experience for
visitors of all ages.
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| Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden - Hakodate City, Hokkaido Prefecture |
The garden’s history dates back to 1970
when it was first established as a botanical sanctuary. Just a year later, in
October 1971, a monkey mountain was introduced, offering visitors the chance to
observe Japanese macaques in a natural habitat. The zoo’s management was later
handed over to the Hakodate Ecology Club, a non-profit organization, in 2003 to
ensure its continued focus on environmental education and sustainable tourism.
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| The main entrance and ticket booth of the Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden |
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| We got our tickets to enter the Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden grounds |
Though plans for a Yunokawa Marine Park,
which aimed to combine an aquarium, botanical garden, and hot spring resort,
were drawn up in 1987, the project was eventually abandoned due to space
constraints and lack of collaboration. Today, the Hakodate Tropical Botanical
Garden remains a beloved and tranquil spot for both locals and tourists.
Must-See Attractions at Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden
Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden's Monkey Mountain
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| The famed bathing Japanese macaque of Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden |
Monkey Mountain: Watch Japanese Macaques
Year-Round One of the most popular features of the garden is Monkey Mountain,
where visitors can observe Japanese macaques throughout the year. The highlight
of the experience comes in the winter months, from December to May (Golden
Week), when the monkeys indulge in the hot spring baths. It’s a rare and
captivating sight! For a more interactive experience, visitors can buy monkey
food for 100 yen at the front desk.
Foot Bath: Relax in Natural Hot Springs
After touring the garden, unwind by dipping your feet into the soothing foot
bath, which utilizes natural hot spring water. This relaxing spot is always a
favorite among visitors. Don’t have a towel? You can buy one at the front desk
for just 100 yen.
Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden's Tropical Greenhouse
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| Inside Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden's Tropical Greenhouse |
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| There is a Koi pond inside the tropical greenhouse |
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| There is also a cage full of love birds |
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| There are a few aquariums with tropical fish |
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| Can you see the monkey? |
Tropical Greenhouse: A Colorful Garden of
Wonders The greenhouse is home to over 3,000 tropical plants from about 300
different species. From bananas and lemons to vibrant flowers like
bougainvillea, hibiscus, and angel’s trumpet, the greenhouse is a feast for the
senses. Some of the more unusual plants include the breadfruit tree, ping-pong
tree, and chewing gum tree. Visitors can also enjoy a panoramic view of the
greenhouse from the observation deck, located at the center of the garden.
Battery Cars: A Fun Way to Explore For
families with children, battery car rides are a big hit. For just 50 yen per
ride, these electric cars offer a fun way to explore the garden grounds.
Available from April to October, the battery cars are a convenient and
enjoyable mode of transportation, though they are closed during the winter
months and on rainy days.
A Unique Retreat for Everyone
Though the ambitious Yunokawa Marine Park
project was never realized, the Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden continues to
captivate visitors with its natural beauty, wildlife, and serene atmosphere.
Whether you’re strolling through the lush greenery, watching monkeys play in
the hot spring, or relaxing in the foot bath, the garden offers something for
everyone.
Team Nicerio visits Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden
On April 3, 2023, my family and I visited
the Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden during the final day of our 3-day
“Birthday Road Trip.” It was my 518th day in Japan as an ALT in the JET Programme. This location was chosen by my wife and daughter, who were excited
to see the Japanese macaques enjoying the onsen. It was definitely a fun sight,
and feeding them the 100 yen food packs made the experience even more
enjoyable. For me, I loved walking through the tropical garden, as the plants
reminded me of my home in the Philippines. While the garden is clearly a
popular destination for tourists, I couldn’t help but feel that it needs some renovations. Many of the facilities, especially the main attraction—Monkey
Mountain—are showing signs of aging.
Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden
Admission Fees
- Elementary and Junior High School Students: 100 yen
(Free for students who attend schools in Hakodate City or live in Hakodate
and attend schools outside the city)
- General Admission: 300 yen
- Group Discount: 20% off for groups
of 20 or more
(80 yen for students, 240 yen for adults)
Free Admission:
- Preschool children
- Hakodate residents with disabilities and their caregivers
- Hakodate residents aged 65 or older
(50% off)
Battery Car Fee: 50 yen per ride
Special Admission for Residents:
- Residents with disabilities: Free
- Seniors (65 and older): Half price
To use the special admission, residents
must show the appropriate document at the counter:
- Free tickets: Physical Disability
Certificate, Mental Disability Health and Welfare Certificate, or
Rehabilitation Certificate
- Half-price tickets: Health
Insurance Card, Elderly Recipient Card, Driver’s License, or another
document confirming the name, birth date, and address
Note:
Application forms are available at the botanical garden or on the Hakodate City
Board of Education website.
Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden
Operating Hours
Opening Hours:
April to October: 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM
November to March: 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Closed:
December 29th - January 1st
Why visit Hakodate Tropical Botanical
Garden?
The Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden is a
must-visit spot in Hakodate. Whether you’re there to see the macaques, admire
the tropical plants, or enjoy family-friendly activities, it’s a peaceful and
enjoyable place for everyone. Make sure to add it to your itinerary for a
memorable experience in nature!
Getting to Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden
There are multiple routes to reach the Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden from Hakodate Station, and this is the one I'm most familiar with.
From Hakodate Station, head to the Hakodate Station mae bus stop and take bus No. 95 Hiyoshi Eigyosho-mae, operated by Hako Bus Company. Get off at the Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden mae bus stop. From there, walk a short distance to reach the garden.
Travel time: 23 minutes
Fare: 310 yen
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