Welcome to Hakodate: A Culinary Journey through Japan’s Seafood Paradise

Embark on a unique voyage to Hakodate, a city where culinary dreams come true amidst the stunning backdrop of coastal Hokkaido. Famous for its fresh seafood, historic European-style buildings, and breathtaking night views, Hakodate offers an eclectic mix of experiences that merge to create unforgettable memories.

This three-day itinerary is designed for food enthusiasts eager to dive deep into the heart of Hakodate’s culinary scene. From the bustling morning markets overflowing with the day’s freshest catch to the serene heights of Mount Hakodate, offering panoramic views that will steal your heart away, each day is carefully planned to ensure a rich blend of taste, tradition, and natural beauty.

Join us as we explore charming cafes, vibrant markets, historical sites, and the unrivaled night scenery that makes Hakodate a must-visit destination. Whether you’re savoring the local seafood delicacies, soaking in the hot springs of Yunokawa Onsen, or walking through the quaint streets of Motomachi, Hakodate invites you to discover its many flavors, sights, and sounds. Get ready to be tantalized and enchanted by this culinary paradise!

Day by day, meal by meal, we’ll guide you through an exquisite journey that shines a spotlight on why Hakodate is not just another stop on Japan’s vast map but a destination that speaks directly to the soul of every traveler and food lover.

Day 1: Immersion in Hakodate’s Culinary Delights

Welcome to Hakodate, your gateway to a gastronomic adventure like no other. Embark on a journey that tantalizes your taste buds and immerses you in the local food scene from dawn till dusk.

Morning: Hakodate Morning Market

Begin your day at the Hakodate Asaichi (Morning Market), just a few steps from Hakodate Station. Open from the early hours till mid-noon, this market is a seafood lover’s paradise. Treat yourself to a seafood breakfast, with dishes ranging from fresh sea urchin bowls to succulent crab meats and squid sashimi. Don’t forget to try the iconic Hakodate squid, either fresh or grilled, for an authentic taste of the sea.

Lunch: Historic Motomachi District

Stroll down to the historic Motomachi District, where East meets West in architecture and cuisine. Settle in for lunch at a café that serves up Western-style dishes with a Japanese twist. A recommended dish is the Hakodate curry rice, a delightful fusion that perfectly represents the city’s culinary diversity.

Afternoon: Goryokaku Tower and Surrounds

Post-lunch, make your way to the Goryokaku Tower, where you can digest while enjoying panoramic views of Hakodate and the star-shaped Goryokaku fort. A short distance from the tower lies Goryokaku Park, perfect for a leisurely walk. As tea time approaches, visit a local café for a Hokkaido-style soft serve ice cream or the unique squid ink ice cream, a must-try for adventurous foodies.

Evening: Dinner with a View

As night falls, take the Hakodate Ropeway up to Mount Hakodate to witness the breathtaking night view over the city and bay. It’s been named one of the world’s most beautiful nightscapes. For dinner, choose from one of the restaurants atop the mountain or along its base, where you can enjoy local seafood dishes or Hakodate’s famous ramen for a comforting end to your day.

Recommendation: Book a table at one of the mountain-top restaurants in advance to ensure you get a window seat for the ultimate dinner view.

Retire to your accommodation in Hakodate, perhaps at JR Inn Hakodate where you can rest and rejuvenate for another day of exploration and culinary adventures awaiting you in Hakodate.

Day 2: Culinary Exploration and Cultural Immersion

Day two in Hakodate unwraps more of its culinary secrets paired with cultural exploration, promising an unforgettable journey into the heart of this charming city’s offerings.

Morning: Leisurely Breakfast and Yunokawa Onsen

Start your day at Yunokawa Onsen, a haven for relaxation and health. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotelbefore heading for a soothing dip in one of the many hot springs the area is famed for. Many ryokans offer traditional Japanese breakfasts that include fish, rice, miso soup, and various side dishes, energizing you for the day ahead.

Lunch: Hakodate Fish Market

No visit to Hakodate is complete without experiencing its vibrant fish markets. Head to the Hakodate Fish Market for lunch, where you can savor the freshest seafood Hakodate has to offer. Try the build-your-own seafood bowl, where you choose your seafood freshly from the stalls and have it served atop a bowl of steaming rice.

Afternoon: Visit the Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden

Post-lunch, make your way to the Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden which is famous for its winter monkeys enjoying an onsen bath. Besides this unique sight, the garden also houses a variety of tropical plants and flowers, providing a great backdrop for relaxation and leisure.

Evening: Bay Area and Nightlife

As evening approaches, head to the Hakodate Bay Area. This scenic waterfront is lined with red brick warehouses that have been converted into chic boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. Enjoy dinner at one of the area’s restaurants, offering everything from gourmet French cuisine to fresh sushi and seafood dishes. After dinner, explore the vibrant nightlife, perhaps stopping at a local bar or pub for some Hokkaido sake or beer.

Suggestion: Try a glass of locally brewed Hakodate beer along with a seafood platter for an authentic dining experience.

Day 3: Cultural Heritage and Evening Splendor

On the third day of your journey in Hakodate, immerse yourself in the city’s rich historical tapestry and end the day with panoramic night views, all while continuing to indulge in the local cuisine.

Morning: Mount Hakodate and Morning Coffee

Begin your day with an early morning trip to Mount Hakodate to catch the sunrise. The view from the mountaintop is one of the best in Japan, offering a breathtaking panorama of the city and the surrounding bay. After descending, rejuvenate with a cup of coffee and a light breakfast at one of Hakodate’s charming cafés, perhaps trying the local specialty, Hakodate milk bread.

Mid-Morning: Trappistine Convent

After breakfast, visit the Trappistine Convent, an architectural gem that is home to a community of nuns. The serene ambiance and beautiful chapel provide a tranquil retreat. Don’t forget to purchase some of the exquisite handmade cookies or sweets made by the nuns, a perfect souvenir from your visit.

Lunch: Historical Motomachi District

For lunch, head back to the Historical Motomachi District. Explore the area’s blend of Eastern and Western cultures, reflected in its architecture and food. Enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants offering a fusion of Japanese and Western cuisines, such as a seafood gratin or squid ink pasta.

Afternoon: Old Hakodate Public Hall and Hakodate Orthodox Church

Continue your exploration of Motomachi by visiting the Old Hakodate Public Hall, a symbol of the city’s storied past. Then, make your way to the Hakodate Orthodox Church, an architectural marvel and a testament to Hakodate’s diverse cultural history. Enjoy the peace and take in the intricate details of these historic sites.

Evening: Dinner at the Bay Area and Night Walk

Conclude your day with a dinner at the Hakodate Bay Area. Choose from restaurants offering fresh seafood to those serving international dishes, enjoying the scenic views of the bay. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the waterfront, experiencing the beautiful night scenery of Hakodate, with its illuminated buildings and calm waters reflecting the city lights.

Tip: End your night at one of the local bars in the bay area to taste Japanese whisky or sake along with some local snacks.

As our journey through the culinary delights and scenic wonders of Hakodate comes to a close, we reflect on the rich experiences that have filled our days. From the freshest seafood at the break of dawn at the morning market to the tranquil beauty of an onsen bath under the stars, Hakodate has unveiled its treasures, one unique meal and memorable moment at a time.

Hakodate’s charm lies not just in its cuisine but in the harmonious blend of culture, history, and nature that greets every visitor. Each meal, from the simplest bowl of ramen to the most elaborate seafood platter, tells a story of tradition, innovation, and the bounty of the sea that has shaped this coastal city into a food lover’s paradise.

May the flavors you’ve savored, the sights you’ve witnessed, and the warmth of Hakodate’s hospitality linger long after you’ve returned home. And let this just be the beginning of your culinary adventures in Japan. Until next time, keep exploring, keep tasting, and carry the spirit of Hakodate with you wherever you go.