【Complete Guide】Mt. Hakodate｜Access, Night View, Things to Do, Best Tours【2025 Update】

Mt. Hakodate is one of Hokkaido’s iconic spots, famous for offering one of the Top 3 Night Views in the World.
This article will give you the ultimate guide to Mt. Hakodate — including access information, things to do, seasonal highlights, nearby gourmet spots, and the best tour options.
Perfect for your travel planning, so make sure to read through to the end!

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What is Mt. Hakodate?｜A 334-meter Mountain with Easy Access

Located at the western end of Hakodate city in Hokkaido, Mt. Hakodate stands 334 meters tall.
Thanks to its proximity to the city, it's easily accessible by car, bus, or ropeway.

The mountain is not only famous for its stunning view but also rich in nature, being home to about 600 species of plants and around 150 species of birds.

Historically, it served as a strategic military point during the Edo and Meiji periods, and you can still find remains of old fortifications along the trails.

Whether you love nature, history, or scenic beauty, Mt. Hakodate is a must-visit!

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Why is Mt. Hakodate’s Night View So Famous?

Mt. Hakodate’s night view is ranked among the World’s Top 3 Night Views, alongside Hong Kong and Nagasaki.
It even earned a three-star rating in the Michelin Green Guide Japan!

Best time to visit:
🕰 30 minutes to 1 hour after sunset — when the sky turns deep blue and the city lights sparkle like jewels.

The city’s unique "hourglass" shape, surrounded by the sea on both sides, makes the nightscape incredibly special.

🌟 Tip: Choose a windless day for the clearest views!

Best seasons:

• Winter (December–February): Crisp air makes the lights shine brighter.

• Spring–Autumn: Perfect for enjoying the contrast between the sea and city lights.

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How to Enjoy Mt. Hakodate【From Day to Night】

🌞 Daytime Activities

• 【360° Panoramic Views】
  See the entire city, Hakodate Bay, Tsugaru Strait, and sometimes even Aomori!

• 【Nature Walks】
  Explore scenic trails filled with rare plants and birds.

• 【Historical Walks】
  Discover the remains of military fortifications hidden around the mountain.

🌆 Evening

• 【Magical Sunset】
  Watch the sky turn vibrant orange and purple — a stunning prelude to the night view.

🌃 Night

• 【Breathtaking Nightscape】
  Perfect for couples, families, and solo travelers. Feel the city glow like a sea of stars.

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How to Get to Mt. Hakodate｜Access Guide

① Ropeway (Most Popular Option)

• Travel Time: About 3 minutes from the base to the summit

• Fare: 1,800 yen round-trip (adults), 900 yen (children)

• Operating Hours:

  • 【Summer (April–October)】10:00 AM – 10:00 PM (last ascent 9:50 PM)

  • 【Winter (November–March)】10:00 AM – 9:00 PM (last ascent 8:50 PM)

🚡 Official info: Mt. Hakodate Ropeway　Trip.com Hotel Deals

② By Car

• Note: Private vehicles are prohibited from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM during the night view hours.
  (Use the shuttle bus instead during this time!)

③ Shuttle Bus

• Departure Points: JR Hakodate Station, Motomachi Area, Bay Area, etc.

• Frequency: Every 20–30 minutes (depends on season)

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Pro Tips for Visiting Mt. Hakodate

🔵 Check the weather!
⇒ Avoid cloudy days for the best night view.

🔵 Dress warmly!
⇒ The summit can be 5–10°C colder than the city, even in summer.

🔵 Avoid peak crowds
⇒ Visit on weekdays or earlier in the evening to skip the heavy queues for the ropeway.

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【Recommended】Book a Mt. Hakodate Tour on Trip.com

While solo visits are great, joining a tour can make your Mt. Hakodate experience even smoother and more enjoyable!
Trip.com offers excellent tour options that include:

• Ropeway tickets included

• Hotel pick-up and drop-off

• Guided tours explaining the history and highlights

• Night view + gourmet dinner combo plans

Trip.com also allows last-minute bookings, perfect for flexible travelers!

🔗 Find Mt. Hakodate Tours on Trip.com　Trip.com Hotel Deals

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【Conclusion】Witness a Once-in-a-Lifetime Night View at Mt. Hakodate

Mt. Hakodate's night view is more than just beautiful — it's breathtaking, emotional, and unforgettable.
With easy access, rich nature, historical depth, and incredible cityscape, it’s one of Japan’s must-see destinations.

For the best experience, make sure to plan smartly with Trip.com and create your unforgettable Hokkaido memories!Trip.com Hotel Deals

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【Google Map】Mt. Hakodate Location

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