Hakodate Highlights 5 Hours Private Shore Excursion

Hakodate , Japan

Hakodate Highlights 5 Hours Private Shore Excursion

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This tour is designed exclusively for cruise passengers and offers the convenience of a private car service with no sharing. Unlike group tours, travelers can enjoy a flexible schedule and explore Hakodate’s highlights at their own pace. The itinerary combines history, culture, food, and scenic views in just five hours, making it the perfect choice for guests with limited time in port. Communication with the driver is supported by a translation device, ensuring a smooth and worry-free experience.

※The driver speaks Japanese. We will send the English materials to you in advance.

Available options

Standard - 3pax

Standard: Please write your preferred tour start time in the “Special Requirements” section　　 next page.<br/>Pickup included

Mini Van - 9pax

Mini Van: Please write your preferred tour start time in the “Special Requirements” section　　 next page.<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Pick up & Drop off

Air-conditioned vehicle

Parking Fees

Detailed itinerary

Motomachi District offers travelers a chance to stroll through charming sloping streets lined with Western-style buildings and historic churches that highlight Hakodate’s international heritage. The area provides scenic views of the harbor, cobblestone paths for walking, and plenty of opportunities to capture memorable photos of this picturesque neighborhood.

Stop 2

Goryōkaku Tower provides travelers with a panoramic view of the star-shaped Goryōkaku Fort, one of Hakodate’s most iconic landmarks. From the observation deck, visitors can admire the unique design of the fortress, the surrounding park, and seasonal scenery such as cherry blossoms in spring or colorful foliage in autumn. The tower also offers exhibits and displays where travelers can learn about the historical significance of the site.

Stop 3

Hakodate Morning Market introduces travelers to the city’s vibrant food culture with rows of stalls offering fresh seafood, seasonal produce, and local specialties. Visitors can taste iconic dishes such as crab, sea urchin, or squid, enjoy casual dining at small eateries, and experience the lively atmosphere of a traditional Japanese market. The market also provides opportunities to shop for souvenirs and interact with local vendors. Meals are at the travelers’ own expense.

Kanemori Red Brick Warehouses offer travelers a blend of history, shopping, and culture in one of Hakodate’s most iconic waterfront areas. The historic brick buildings, once used as warehouses, now house stylish boutiques, souvenir shops, and cafes. Visitors can stroll along the picturesque harbor, enjoy a relaxed shopping experience, and take in the unique atmosphere that combines Hakodate’s trading past with its modern charm.

Mount Hakodate Observation Deck offers travelers one of the most spectacular panoramic views in Japan. From the summit, visitors can admire the unique “night view of Hakodate,” often ranked among the world’s top three nightscapes, as well as stunning daytime vistas of the city, harbor, and surrounding mountains. Access to the summit is primarily by ropeway, which takes about three minutes to reach the top. Please note that ropeway tickets are not included in the tour price and should be purchased on-site.

What's not included

Mt. Hakodate Ropeway/Pay on site

Goryokaku tower/Pay on site

(Drinks)

Available languages

Guide guide

Written guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Hakodate

Hakodate is a vibrant port city in Hokkaido, renowned for its stunning panoramic views, historic sites, and delicious seafood. Its unique blend of Japanese and Western influences, combined with breathtaking natural scenery, makes it a must-visit destination in northern Japan.

Top Attractions

Mount Hakodate

A scenic mountain offering breathtaking panoramic views of Hakodate and the Tsugaru Strait. Accessible by ropeway or hiking.

Nature 1-2 hours ¥900 (ropeway)

Goryokaku Fort

A star-shaped fort built in the 19th century, now a popular cherry blossom viewing spot and historical landmark.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (¥460 for museum entry)

Hakodate Morning Market

A bustling market offering fresh seafood, local produce, and traditional snacks. A must-visit for food lovers.

Cultural 1-2 hours Varies

Hakodate Old Public Hall of Welfare

A historic building showcasing the architectural style of the early 20th century. Now a museum with exhibits on Hakodate's history.

Historical 1 hour ¥500

Hakodate Central Park

A beautiful park with walking trails, gardens, and seasonal flowers. A great spot for a leisurely stroll.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kaisendon

A seafood bowl with a variety of fresh seafood, including crab, squid, and scallops, served over rice.

Lunch Contains seafood

Ika no Shiokara

A traditional dish made from fermented squid guts, often served with rice or as a topping for noodles.

Snack Contains seafood

Hakodate Ramen

A local variety of ramen with a rich, miso-based broth and topped with local ingredients like butter and corn.

Dinner Contains gluten

Butadon

A rice bowl topped with grilled pork belly, a popular dish in Hokkaido.

Dinner Contains pork

Popular Activities

Skiing at Esan Ski Resort Hiking in Onuma Park Onsen (hot spring) visits Picnicking in Hakodate Central Park Exploring Goryokaku Fort Visiting the Hakodate Old Public Hall of Welfare Swimming at Kunimi Beach Boat tours in Hakodate Port

Best Time to Visit

June to August (summer), December to February (winter)

Summer is ideal for outdoor activities and festivals, while winter offers skiing and hot springs. Both seasons attract the most tourists.

20-25°C (summer), -5 to 0°C (winter) 68-77°F (summer), 23-32°F (winter)

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

JST (GMT+9)

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Hakodate is a very safe city with a low crime rate. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is uncommon. However, as with any destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Use licensed taxis and ensure the meter is running.
• Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.

Getting there

By air

Hakodate Airport • 15 km from city center

By train

Hakodate Station

By bus

Hakodate Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Hakodate. The bus network is efficient and covers most of the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Motomachi Bay Area Goryokaku Daikanzaka

Day trips

Onuma Park

15 km from Hakodate • Half day to full day

A beautiful park with walking trails, gardens, and seasonal flowers. A great spot for a leisurely stroll and outdoor activities.

Kunimi Beach

20 km from Hakodate • Half day to full day

A scenic beach with clear waters and a beautiful coastline. A great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Esan Ski Resort

30 km from Hakodate • Full day

A popular ski resort offering a variety of slopes for all skill levels. A great spot for skiing and snowboarding in the winter.

Festivals

Hakodate Yukimatsuri (Snow Festival) • Early February Hakodate Port Festival • Mid-August Hakodate Cherry Blossom Festival • Late April to early May

Pro tips

Visit Mount Hakodate for the best sunset views in the city.
Try the local seafood bowls (kaisendon) at the Hakodate Morning Market.
Explore the historic streets of Motomachi and Daikanzaka for a glimpse into Hakodate's past.
Take a day trip to Onuma Park for beautiful nature and outdoor activities.
Visit during the cherry blossom season (late April to early May) for stunning views of the blossoms at Goryokaku Fort.