Hakodate 3-Day Itinerary Without a Car

Travel Journal
Travel Journal

Hakodate is one of Japan’s most charming cities, known for its nostalgic streets, fresh seafood, relaxing hot springs, and breathtaking night views. While one day is enough to see the highlights, a 2-night stay lets you truly enjoy the experience at a relaxed pace.

This guide introduces a 3-day itinerary that uses only public transportation like trams and buses—perfect for car-free travelers! Whether you’re solo or with friends, this route covers all the essentials: food, views, hot springs, and shopping.


Day 1: Arrival in Hakodate – Bay Area & Night View from Mt. Hakodate

Flight to Hakodate + Shuttle to Hotel

Start your journey from Tokyo’s Haneda Airport and arrive in Hakodate in about 1.5 hours. From the airport, take a shuttle bus to Hakodate Station. Drop off your luggage at your hotel near the station—this area is perfect for easy access to trams and major sights.

Lunch at Lucky Pierrot (Local Burger Chain)

Try Hakodate’s famous soul food: Lucky Pierrot! This quirky local burger chain is loved by locals and known for its massive portions.

  • 📍 Marina Suehiro Store (seaside location with a view)
  • Must-try: Chinese Chicken Burger, “Laki-Pote” fries with meat sauce, and Guarana soda
  • 💡 Tip: Great view of the harbor while enjoying your meal

Red Brick Warehouse Shopping

Head to the Red Brick Warehouse district, a historic area filled with boutique shops, cafes, and local crafts. It’s the perfect place to shop for souvenirs and enjoy a stroll through retro architecture.

Photo Spots: Hachiman-zaka Slope & Old Public Hall

Visit Hachiman-zaka, a scenic sloped street that overlooks the harbor—one of the most Instagrammable spots in Hakodate. Then explore the Old Public Hall of Hakodate Ward, a historic Western-style building with gorgeous interiors and balcony views.

Dinner at Kaisendokoro Hakodateyama

Indulge in fresh local seafood including sashimi, grilled fish, and Hakodate’s famous raw squid (ika-sashi). This restaurant offers a wide variety of dishes featuring the day’s catch.

Mt. Hakodate Night View

Cap off your day with a ropeway ride up Mt. Hakodate to enjoy one of Japan’s most famous night views. It’s often called the “Million Dollar View” and is absolutely breathtaking!

  • ⏰ Tip: Arrive about 30 minutes before sunset for the best view
  • 📷 Pro Tip: For less-crowded photos, walk slightly away from the main lookout area

Day 2: Morning Market, British Teahouse & Onsen Stay

Breakfast at Hakodate Asaichi Market

Head to Hakodate’s Morning Market for a truly local experience. Create your own seafood bowl (kaisen-don) and try the live squid fishing experience—you can eat your catch sashimi-style on the spot!

Afternoon Tea at Victorian Rose

Enjoy an elegant tea break at Victorian Rose, a Western-style teahouse that reflects Hakodate’s international past. Try the tea and scone set with clotted cream in a calm, classical setting.

Check-in to Hotel Banso (Onsen Stay)

Spend your second night in a relaxing Japanese hot spring ryokan (onsen inn).
Hotel Banso offers:

  • Spacious indoor and outdoor baths
  • Local seafood buffet with Hokkaido specialties
  • A slower, more traditional Japanese stay experience

Day 3: Goryokaku Fort & Gourmet Sushi Lunch

Goryokaku Tower & Park

Visit Goryokaku, a star-shaped historical fort, and take in the view from the tower. The area is beautiful year-round and perfect for a peaceful walk.

Lunch at Kaitenzushi Shunka

Finish with a sushi lunch at Shunka, a popular conveyor-belt sushi spot offering fresh local seafood at reasonable prices.

Return Trip & Sweet Ending at Rokkatei Café

Before heading to the airport, relax at Rokkatei Café, a famous Hokkaido sweets shop. Their cheesecakes and gift-worthy treats are perfect for a sweet farewell to Hakodate.


Final Thoughts: Why Hakodate is Perfect for Car-Free Travel

  • Easy Transportation: Trams, shuttle buses, and local buses connect all major sights.
  • Amazing Food: From burgers and seafood bowls to teahouse scones and buffet dinners.
  • Scenic Highlights: Mt. Hakodate at night, the star-shaped Goryokaku, and historical Western buildings.
  • Hot Spring Relaxation: Spend your second night soaking in an onsen for the ultimate Japanese experience.

FAQ – Visiting Hakodate Without a Car

Q: Is it easy to get around Hakodate without a car?

A: Yes! The city is compact and well-served by trams and buses. This guide is designed for travelers who rely on public transportation.

Q: What are some must-try local foods?

A: Lucky Pierrot burgers, seafood bowls at the morning market, squid sashimi, Hakodate salt ramen, and crab dishes are all local specialties.

Q: Best time to see the night view from Mt. Hakodate?

A: Arrive at the summit about 30 minutes before sunset. Weekdays or early evenings are less crowded.

Q: Where should I stay?

A: For easy access, stay near Hakodate Station on night 1 (e.g., Premier Hotel Cabin) and a hot spring hotel like Hotel Banso on night 2.

Q: Best seasons to visit Hakodate?

A: Spring (cherry blossoms) and fall (autumn foliage) are especially beautiful. Winter night views are magical—but bundle up!

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