Located in the southwestern part of Hakodate City stands Mt. Hakodate, 334 meters above sea level. There is an observation deck at the summit of the mountain, accessible via ropeway, bus, and taxi.

The night view of Hakodate as seen from the observation deck is said to be the most impressive night view in Japan, and was included amongst the top three best night views in the world. It's the first point of interest on any list of things to do in Hakodate.

The beautiful curves that lie between the Tsugaru Strait and Hakodate Port with the scattered lights of Hakodate City have been nominated as the reason behind its magnificent beauty, and the landscape has been likened to a box of jewels.

Because of its nighttime popularity and the crowds that come with it, we recommend arriving before sunset in order to grab the best position for photography.

The best season for sightseeing in Hakodate is summer, however, you can really enjoy a romantic snowy view during the winter season. With the lights reflected off the snow, the beauty of the night view is even more amplified.

Nestled on the slope of Motomachi stands the Russian Orthodox Church, with its impressive white walls and cupolas (dome-style towers). Built in 1861 as an attached chapel of the Russian Consulate by priest Nikolai, who was assigned to advocate the missionary work of the Russian Orthodox to Hakodate in 1961.

The first sanctuary was destroyed by the Great Hakodate Fire of 1907 and was reconstructed into the current shrine of today in 1916, incorporating the Russian Byzantine style. It was designated as a Cultural Property of Japan in 1916.

The sound of this bell ringing is also considered one of the 100 Soundscapes of Japan. Alongside the church is a steep slope known as the "Cha Cha Nobori," from which you can see the two churches, the Hakodate Christian Orthodox Church and Hakodate St. John's Church.

At the top of the Daisan-zaka slope stands a Gothic-style church marked by its large bell tower. One of the oldest churches in the country, along with those in Yokohama and Nagasaki, it is a symbol of the resurrection of the mission of Christianity. A temporary cathedral was built in 1867, and the first church was established in 1877, however, was destroyed by the great fire. The current building was restored in 1923.

Another place that should top any list of things to do in Hakodate is a visit to Goryokaku Park.

Built in the 1860s, Goryokaku was Japan's first French architectural fortress and is characterized by its pentagonal star shape. It was the last base of the Shogunate Army in the Battle of Hakodate, the war between the new government forces and the former shogunate army after the reconciliation, but was surrendered in 1869.

Goryokaku is currently maintained as a park in which you can freely stroll and takes about 30 minutes per go-around. Remnants from the Battle of Hakodate such as cannons and stone walls can be seen throughout, and you can even enjoy boating along the moats in the summertime.

The Hakodate magistrate office in the center of the park was established by the Tokugawa shogunate in 1864 as the base of the Ezo rule. It was dismantled after the Hakodate war, but in 2010 it was restored in its original Edo era style. You can see exhibitions of the history of Goryokaku and the restorative works in a 72-tatami mat room.

You can see the pentagonal star shape from atop Goryokaku Tower. The tower stands adjacent to the park at 107 meters high. There are shops and restaurants on the 1st and 2nd floors and observation decks at the 86 and 90-meter points. From the observation decks, you can see the entire Goryokaku Park, as well as the expansive 360 panoramic view from Hakodate City to Mt. Hakodate.

Facing Hakodate Port in the Bay Area stands the Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse, a group of brick warehouses. In the front is the Kanemori Youbutsukan or the "Western Museum."

It was originally built as a business warehouse in the Meiji Era, but has been renewed and rebuilt as a shopping center. A variety of shops line the hall, including about 20 shops that sell items from jewelry to Hakodate souvenirs, clothing and miscellaneous goods, and even some tax-free shops. There are even cafes in which you can easily enjoy delicious Hakodate sweets.

There are also shops and restaurants in the neighboring BAY Hakodate area, as well as glass craft shops and beer halls in Hakodate History Plaza. Many shops sell items unique to Hakodate, such as soap made from Hakodate kelp, and squid-ink dyed cloth bags and pouches. At night, you can enjoy a romantic view as the exterior wall is lit up.

In the Hakodate Meiji Hall, you will also find specialty shops such as a music box store, and a store featuring glass goods.

Make your trip extra memorable by booking one of these recommended tours on our partner site, Voyagin!