Located at the southern tip of Hokkaido, Hakodate is a city where East meets West—its unique atmosphere shaped by a history of international trade. From the cobbled slopes overlooking one of Japan’s most breathtaking night views, to the bustling morning market overflowing with the bounty of land and sea, Hakodate offers a rich variety of experiences even during a short stay. With the Shinkansen now connecting Tokyo directly, this enchanting port town has never been more accessible. If you’re seeking a destination that feels different from everyday life, Hakodate is the perfect escape.

From the moment you step off the train, you’ll notice Hakodate’s distinct character—historic red-brick buildings, stone-paved hills, and the salty breeze from the nearby bay. After dropping off your luggage at your accommodation, begin your adventure in the Bay Area, where old warehouse buildings have been stylishly converted into shops, cafés, and restaurants. Preserving their original charm while embracing modern design, these spaces offer an irresistible blend of nostalgia and novelty.

As evening approaches, head for Mount Hakodate, home to one of the most famous night views in Japan. A quick ropeway ride takes you to the summit, where a 300-meter-high vantage point reveals a glittering curve of lights, like jewels scattered across the bay. The city’s unique topography, surrounded by water, makes the view especially stunning. On clear nights, the sky, sea, and city lights merge into a dreamlike panorama that will leave you awestruck—and reluctant to leave.

Back in town, carry the magic of the night into a memorable dinner. Thanks to its coastal location, Hakodate offers incredibly fresh seafood—from grilled shellfish and sashimi to inventive dishes that highlight local ingredients. Despite its popularity with tourists, many restaurants are beloved by locals too, offering a warm, welcoming atmosphere and impressive quality in every bite.

The next morning, start your day early with a visit to the Hakodate Morning Market, just steps from the station. Even in the crisp morning air, the market buzzes with energy. Simply strolling past rows of fresh seafood and produce stalls is a delight, but to fully embrace the experience, sit down for a luxurious breakfast with a seafood rice bowl. From classics like salmon roe, scallops, and sea urchin to rare seasonal catches, each bowl becomes a once-in-a-lifetime culinary moment. Many stalls offer the popular “Katte-don” (build-your-own bowl) style, letting you choose your toppings—making breakfast both a feast and a fun travel memory.

After the market, continue exploring Hakodate on foot. In the Motomachi district, famous for its hilly streets, you’ll find foreign-style churches and Meiji-era wooden homes that reflect Hakodate’s multicultural past. Many of these historical buildings are open for tours, adding depth and insight to your visit. A walk along the harbor reveals traces of Hakodate’s former life as a bustling trading port, all within a peaceful, laid-back atmosphere.

Although Hakodate is compact in size, that’s part of its charm—allowing you to enjoy a full experience with minimal travel stress. From morning to night, scenery to flavor, this city offers a concentrated taste of “a foreign land within Japan.” It’s a place that gently pulls you away from the noise of everyday life and invites you to breathe, discover, and feel.

Thanks to the Shinkansen, Hakodate is now more accessible than ever from Tokyo and the Tohoku region—making it a very real option for a weekend getaway. Even with limited time, the richness of the experience here leaves a lasting impression. Once a gateway for cultural exchange across the seas, Hakodate continues to offer today’s travelers new discoveries and deeply moving moments.