A port city on Hokkaidō's south-eastern coast, Hakodate is a buzzing waterfront city with a fascinating history. A popular starting point for an exploration of the island, the city offers a number of cultural and foodie attractions for guests from Japan and further afield. Accommodation options consist largely of swish high-rise hotels with ocean views, ideal for business or leisure travellers. Many of the best places to stay in Hakodate have excellent restaurants and soothing hot spring baths, too.

Founded in the early 15th Century, Hakodate was one of the first cities to be opened up to international trade in the wake of Japan’s isolationist Edo Period. Delve into this history with visits to the Old Public Hall of Hakodate Ward, the Hakodate Orthodox Church and the Old British Consulate of Hakodate. Guided tours of the Motomachi district’s narrow streets are brilliant.

Rise early to sample local delicacies at the morning market, or to stroll through Goryokaku Park. Particularly beautiful when the cherry trees are in bloom, the park is also the site of a historic star fort and of the more modern Goryokaku Tower. Finally, soak up panoramic views from atop 334-metre-high Mount Hakodate, reached on foot or by aerial ropeway gondola. Dine on delicious fresh seafood after rejuvenating massages at the best places to stay in Hakodate.

The Best Places to Stay in Hakodate

For City Style

• Yunokowa Prince Hotel Nagisatei offers smart rooms decorated in white and grey tones, with expansive ocean views. Enjoy generous buffet breakfasts, and feast on either Japanese or Western fare in the evenings. Rejuvenating baths are ideal for unwinding. A slick city stay for business or leisure, with over 300 rooms.
• La Vista Hakodate Bay is an imposing, Art Deco-inspired hotel on the waterfront. Pick this place for the enviable location, the ocean views and the delicious dishes at the Hakodate Bay Gourmet Club. A stylish city pad with a more classic feel.

For Couples

• Bourou Noguchi, in downtown Hakodate, has 79 chic, minimalist rooms. Brilliant for couples as well as smart business travellers, this upmarket hotel has open-air baths and an excellent restaurant for keen foodies. Private dining adds to the romantic experience.
• Kappo Ryokan Wakamatsu offers 24 charming rooms overlooking the ocean. The multi-course kaiseki menu is exquisite and the hot spring baths are gorgeous. A chic boutique ryokan for couples.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Want to fly to Hakodate?

• Fly to Tokyo's Haneda International Airport or to Narita International Airport and catch a connecting flight to Hakodate Airport, just under 9km from the city centre. Alternatively, fly to Sapporo's New Chitose Airport, 3.5 hours away by road or rail.
• Hokkaidō is wonderful to explore by road! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• This is a year-round destination. Travel during the winter if you're eager to ski in the mountains, or come in the summer for sunshine, temperatures of up to 23°C and beautiful wildflowers. Spring and autumn are cooler and very picturesque; the cherry blossom draws a real crowd.

Still Not Sure?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Hokkaidō.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Japan.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Hakodate