Hakodate/Matsumae/Okushiri Dreamy Hakodate trip to enjoy with your loved ones

The first spot you should visit in Hakodate is the Goryokaku Tower. From the observation deck, you can see the star-shaped Goryokaku Park as well as Hakodate’s streets, which will be covered with cherry blossoms in spring, greenery in summer, and snow in winter. The landscape changing with the seasons is quite an attraction. Inside the tower, you can learn about Goryokaku and the history of battles fought in Hakodate and broaden your understanding of the area.

After enjoying the scenery, you can go out to explore the Goryokaku Park, which is a perfect spot for Hanami—cherry blossom viewing. From late April to early May, about 1,600 cherry trees will bloom beautifully and will be lit up at night to create an even more romantic atmosphere.

Hakodate’s tram system is convenient not only for city residents but also for tourists. The trams will take you to almost all the sights in the city. If you plan to ride it three times or more in a single day, the “one day tram pass” is recommended. Riding the cute tramcar will get you into the spirit of traveling!

The scenery of the cobblestone paved street stretching directly down towards the port is one of the symbols of Hakodate. It is one of the tourist spots that you cannot leave out when visiting Hakodate. There are western-style houses and a church on the sides, and the street is dotted with cafes filled with a retro atmosphere. During winter, lighting decorations will turn the street into a romantic sight at night.

The Catholic Motomachi Church is another spot to visit. This beautiful Gothic-style church is one of the churches that represent the scenery of the Motomachi area. The red roofs, the tall bell tower, and the weathervane on top of it are its distinguishing traits. Along with the Catholic churches in Yokohama and Nagasaki, these churches have the longest history in Japan. The altar in the cathedral was given by the Pope himself.

Kanamori red brick warehouses are a landmark of Hakodate’s bay area. These old warehouses, built in 1909, were renovated and became a shopping mall. Inside, there are many restaurants and unique shops as well as a chapel. With famous sweets and local beers that you can find only in Hokkaido, here is the perfect place to buy your souvenirs. During the Christmas season, a large Christmas tree attracts many couples every year. In the square in front of the canal, which is especially beautiful at dusk, ring the “Bell of Happiness” with your significant other as the sun setting romantically.

The night view of Hakodate is absolutely stunning and is said to be one of the top three nightscapes in the world. Looking down the city to realize that the places you were just at are all part of those jewel-like, glittering lights is sure to be an amazing experience. Sharing the romantic moment created by Hakodate's enchanting view will be an unforgettable memory for both of you. The daytime view from Mount Hakodate is also beautiful. Lunch at the mountaintop restaurant while gazing at the picturesque scenery will be another memorable experience.

The Yunokawa Onsen is known as the closest hot spring to an airport in Japan. If you stay at the seaside ryokan, you can enjoy the hot spring with an ocean view. You will have a peaceful relaxing time as the water ease your travel fatigue.