Best Things to do in Hakodate | Must-see attractions 2025

Goryokaku Tower

Apr 21-Oct 20 08:00-19:00; Oct 21-Apr 20 09:00-18:00; Dec 1-Feb 28 09:00-19:00

Park

43-9 Goryokaku-cho

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Goryokaku Tower in Hakodate, Japan, offers panoramic views of the star-shaped Goryokaku Fort and surrounding landscapes from its 107-meter-high observatory.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Paid. Adults: ¥900, Children: ¥400.

The Old Public Hall of Hakodate Ward

Mo-Su 09:00-19:00

Museum

11-13 Motomachi

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The Old Public Hall of Hakodate Ward is a historical heritage building in Hakodate, Japan, showcasing significant architecture and cultural value.

Duration: Usually 1-2 hours.

Free. Currently closed to the public.

Motomachi Catholic Church

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

15-30 Motomachi

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Motomachi Catholic Church is a historic Roman Catholic church in Hakodate, Japan, showcasing striking Gothic architecture and a bell tower.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Donations welcomed but not required.

Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden

9:00 AM–4:30 PM

Garden

3 Chome-1-番１５号 Yunokawacho

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Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden in Japan features a greenhouse and unique monkeys enjoying a hot spring, providing a fascinating tropical experience.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Admission is 300 yen for adults; 150 yen for children. Free for preschoolers and seniors.

Hakodate City Museum of Literature

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

22-5 Suehirocho

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Hakodate City Museum of Literature features exhibits dedicated to Japanese literature and writers, located in a historical building surrounded by nature.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may have a separate fee.

Yanagawakotsu Park

Open 24 hours

Park

24-2 Yanagawacho

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Yanagawakotsu Park in Hakodate offers open green spaces, walking paths, and seasonal flowers, making it an ideal spot for outdoor activities and relaxation.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may require a paid ticket.

Hakodate Community Design Center

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Event hall

4-19 Suehirocho

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Hakodate Community Design Center is a hub for local craftsmanship and culture, featuring exhibitions, workshops, and a unique architectural design in Hakodate, Japan.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events may have separate fees.

Hizikata Takuboku Museum

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

25-4 Hinodecho

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Hizikata Takuboku Museum in Hakodate, Japan, showcases the local history and culture through exhibitions and artifacts, focusing on the life of poet Takuboku Ishikawa.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free admission for the general public; special events may have a fee.

Hakodate Museum of Art

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

37-6

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Hakodate Museum of Art in Japan features diverse art exhibitions and plays a significant role in the region's cultural landscape, showcasing local and international artwork.

Duration: 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Takubokusho Park

Open 24 hours

Park

25 Hinodecho

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Takubokusho Park in Hakodate, Japan offers a serene landscape, inviting visitors to explore its natural beauty and tranquility surrounded by local flora.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free.

Museum of Kahei Takadaya

Fr-We 09:00-17:00

Museum

13-22 Suehirocho

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Museum of Kahei Takadaya in Hakodate, Japan, showcases the life and works of Hokkaido’s influential figure in a historic setting.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Hakodatemaru

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Mall

14-13 Omachi

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Hakodatemaru is a historic wooden ship museum in Hakodate, Japan, showcasing maritime heritage including exhibitions on whaling and shipbuilding.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free.

Cape Esan Lighthouse

Open 24 hours

Lighthouse

80-9 Esanmisakicho

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Cape Esan Lighthouse in Hakodate, Japan, was built in 1908 and is known for its striking white tower and scenic coastal views.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. No entrance fee required for the lighthouse.

Hakodate Motomachi Minatogaoka Church

9:00 AM–4:00 PM

Church

29-15

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Hakodate Motomachi Minatogaoka Church, built in 1900, features striking architecture and rich history, serving as a cultural landmark in Hakodate, Japan.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations for maintenance are appreciated.

Motomachi Park

Open 24 hours

Park

12-18 Motomachi

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Motomachi Park in Hakodate, Japan, features beautiful landscapes, historical sites, and scenic views, making it a notable destination for nature and history enthusiasts.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free.

Hakodate Meiji-kan

10:00 AM–7:00 PM

Architectural Building

12-12 Toyokawacho

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Hakodate Meiji-kan is a shopping mall located in Hakodate, Japan, featuring a mix of local crafts, food, and a historical ambiance.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Hakodate City Forest

6:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

327-1 Kamiyunokawacho

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Hakodate City Forest offers tranquil trails and scenic views, making it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts and families in Hakodate, Japan.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free.

Hakodate City Museum

Mo-Su 09:00-16:30

Museum

17-1 Aoyagicho

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Hakodate City Museum features archaeological finds, local paintings, and memorabilia, showcasing the historical journey and culture of Hakodate, Japan.

Duration: About 1.5 to 2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Yunohama Park

Open 24 hours

Park

1-3 Yunokawacho

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Yunohama Park in Hakodate, Japan offers scenic coastal views and lush greenery, featuring hot springs, walking paths, and a family-friendly atmosphere.

Duration: 2 hours.

Free. Onsen facilities may have separate admission fees.

Yunokawa Kuromatsubayashi

9:00 AM–10:00 PM

Park

1-7-55 Yunokawacho

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Yunokawa Kuromatsubayashi is a natural hot spring area in Hakodate, Japan, known for its scenic views, therapeutic waters, and cultural significance in local history.

Duration: 2–4 hours.

Free entry to public hot spring baths. Accommodations at ryokans may incur charges.

Shichizai Bridge

Open all day

Bridge

11-5 Toyokawacho

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Shichizai Bridge in Hakodate, Japan, is a historic arch bridge completed in 1926, known for its beautiful views and accessibility within the city.

Duration: 30 minutes.

Free.

Former Toi Line Arch Bridge

Open all day

Bridge

Kamayacho

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The Former Toi Line Arch Bridge in Hakodate, Japan, is a historical railway bridge completed in 1914, showcasing unique arch architecture and scenic views.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free.

Hakodate Park Country Club

6:00 AM–7:00 PM

Golf Course

185-1 Higashiyamacho

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Hakodate Park Country Club in Japan features 18 holes amidst scenic views, established in 1975, attracting golf enthusiasts and tourists alike.

Duration: 4–5 hours.

Paid. Rates vary by season and time of day.

Hakodate Park

Open 24 hours

Park

17-4 Aoyagicho

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Hakodate Park in Hakodate, Japan features beautiful autumn leaf colors, showcasing gardens and a historic western-style design with cultural significance.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Special events may charge a fee.