Hakodate Sights

  1. Foreigners' Cemetery

    Quite unusual, as it has the graves not only of well-known people of the time, but of sailors, clergy, and others as well, all of whom died far away from their homelands. Many of the graves have English, Russian, or French inscriptions and it is an interesting slice of Japan's colonial history. The walk there is a sight in itself: running parallel to the edge of the bay, it affords some beautiful views of the water.

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  2. Goryō-kaku fort

    Japan's first Western-style fort was built in 1864 in the shape of a five-pointed star ( goryō-kaku means 'five-sided fort') and was designed to trap attackers in deadly crossfire. Nothing remains of the actual fort structure, but the landscaped grounds and moat are picturesque, and one can actually climb around on them.

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  3. Goryō-kaku Tower

    Recently rebuilt but to mixed reaction ('looks like Big Brother', said a resident), the tower provides an attractive view of the fort below and the surrounding city. To reach the fort, take tram 2 or 5 to the Goryōkaku-kōen-mae stop (around 220 , 15 minutes). From there it's a 10-minute walk.

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  4. Hakodate City Museum Annexe

    Nearby the lanscaped grounds where the old fort once stood, this museum offers a taste of the fort's history, including weaponry and bloodstained uniforms (ugh!).

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  5. Hakodate City Museum of Northern Peoples

    A good place to learn about the Ainu and their culture. English signs have been added to some exhibits.

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  7. Hakodate-yama

    This small mountain (334m) offers a great view of the city, especially at night. You can catch the cable car or a summit-bound bus (around 360 , 30 minutes) that leaves directly from the station, is cheaper and stops at several viewing places as it winds to the top. Those wanting to rough it old-style can take the hiking track (from May to late October).

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  8. Old British Consulate

    English-style tea-time makes a relaxing afternoon here that much more enjoyable. British souvenirs and postcards add to the nostalgia. Marmite, anyone?

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  9. Old Public Hall of Hakodate Ward

    This building has a great view of the bay and the outgoing squid boats.

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  10. Ōnuma Quasi-National Park

    Though quite a distance from Hakodate proper, this national park boasts an unusually large lake and swamp that offers beautiful canoeing, fishing and many scenic hiking tracks, is worth the trip. Bring insect repellent, as tourists are particularly tasty. You're much better off hiring a car, as the train connection is inconvenient. Many of the hills have hidden hot springs, but finding them can be difficult - your best bet is to ask a local for directions to their favourite gem.

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  11. Russian Greek Orthodox Church

    A beautiful old church restored in 1916. Remove your shoes before you enter. It's closed in winter from about 26 December through to February (dates vary).

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  13. Squid boats

    At the docks there are some interesting fishing vessels, particularly the squid boats. Lantern-light attracts the squid to the surface; few boats are as picturesque.

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