[spring][ Hokkaido Hakodate City] Hakodateyama Observatory Cherry blossoms and night view
Hakodateyama Observatory is a spot where you can enjoy a special view of cherry blossoms and the night view in spring. Around the observation deck and at the foot of the mountain, about 1,700 cherry trees are in full bloom, and the scenery stands out beautifully against the backdrop of Hakodate Bay.Spectacular views to enjoy from day to night Daytime: The view of the cherry blossoms in full bloom against the blue sky is even more vivid when contrasted with the greenery of Mount Hakodate. Especially during the cherry blossom season, you can enjoy a tunnel of cherry blossoms while walking along the walking paths around the observation deck. At dusk: The moment when the cherry blossoms are bathed in an orange light as the sun sets is a moving and beautiful sight. This twilight time is also a great opportunity for photography enthusiasts to take pictures. Night view: Hakodate, one of the "New Top Three Night Views of Japan," creates a fantastical landscape with cherry blossoms and city lights. With a panoramic view of Hakodate Bay, Tsugaru Strait, and the sparkling city lights, it's a special experience you can't find anywhere else. Best time to see and recommended seasonThe best time to see cherry blossoms in Hakodate in 2024 is expected to be from late April to early May. The Golden Week period from April 28th to May 3rd is particularly popular with tourists, making it the best time to enjoy the cherry blossoms and night view at the same time. By visiting during this time, you can fully experience the unique charm of Mount Hakodate Observatory.
A magnificent harmony of cherry blossoms and the night view
Hakodateyama Observatory is a spot where you can enjoy a special view of cherry blossoms and the night view in spring. Around the observation deck and at the foot of the mountain, about 1,700 cherry trees are in full bloom, and the scenery stands out beautifully against the backdrop of Hakodate Bay.Spectacular views to enjoy from day to night Daytime: The view of the cherry blossoms in full bloom against the blue sky is even more vivid when contrasted with the greenery of Mount Hakodate. Especially during the cherry blossom season, you can enjoy a tunnel of cherry blossoms while walking along the walking paths around the observation deck. At dusk: The moment when the cherry blossoms are bathed in an orange light as the sun sets is a moving and beautiful sight. This twilight time is also a great opportunity for photography enthusiasts to take pictures. Night view: Hakodate, one of the "New Top Three Night Views of Japan," creates a fantastical landscape with cherry blossoms and city lights. With a panoramic view of Hakodate Bay, Tsugaru Strait, and the sparkling city lights, it's a special experience you can't find anywhere else. Best time to see and recommended seasonThe best time to see cherry blossoms in Hakodate in 2024 is expected to be from late April to early May. The Golden Week period from April 28th to May 3rd is particularly popular with tourists, making it the best time to enjoy the cherry blossoms and night view at the same time. By visiting during this time, you can fully experience the unique charm of Mount Hakodate Observatory.
A variety of facilities and ways to enjoy
Hakodateyama Observatory has a full range of facilities aimed at tourists, offering not only the chance to enjoy the cherry blossoms and night view, but also a variety of other ways to have fun, including dining and activities. The appeal of the observation deck facilitiesRooftop Observation Deck: The rooftop observation deck, which offers a 360-degree panoramic view, is a particularly popular spot. During the day, you can see Hakodate Bay and cherry blossoms, and at night, you can see the twinkling city lights. Restaurant "Genova": This restaurant serves dishes made with fresh local seafood, and you can spend a luxurious time watching the night view while you dine. Tea Lounge: A space where you can relax and enjoy the view while enjoying light meals and drinks. Limited-time menus are sometimes available during the spring when the cherry blossoms bloom. How to enjoy the night viewAt the Mount Hakodate Observatory, you can not only enjoy the night view, but also have a special experience. There are "heart marks" hidden in the night view from the observation deck, and couples and families can enjoy searching for them. In addition, the cherry blossoms are lit up at night, and the pink color of the cherry blossoms combined with the lights of the night view creates a fantastic atmosphere.
Accessibility and planning your visit
Hakodateyama Observatory is easily accessible and a popular spot for tourists. There are various ways to get there, including by ropeway, mountain bus, or private car. Access methodsRopeway: Take the tram from Hakodate Station, get off at Jujigai, and walk for about 10 minutes to the Ropeway Sanroku Station. The ropeway takes you to the top in about 3 minutes. This is the most popular transportation method for tourists. Mountain bus: The mountain bus runs directly from JR Hakodate Station and is a convenient way to access the top without having to transfer. It costs 500 yen one way and takes about 30 minutes. Private car: If you are using a rental car, please be aware of the traffic restrictions during the night view hours (17:00-22:00). It is recommended to visit during the day. Precautions and recommended times for visiting To enjoy the spring cherry blossoms and night view, it is important to plan in advance. It is expected to be crowded especially on weekends and during Golden Week, so it is recommended to arrive early. The cherry blossoms are lit up from 30 minutes after sunset to around 9:00 pm, which is the best time to enjoy the beautiful view.
[ Flower viewing and nature appreciation]Other recommended spots
Cherry Blossom Viewing at Matsumae Park
Hokkaido Matsumae Town
Take the Hakodate Bus bound for Matsumae from JR Kikonai Station and get off at the "Matsushiro" bus stop after about 90 minutes. It is about a 3-minute walk from the bus stop to the park entrance.
Lake Mashu: Cherry blossoms and a stroll along the clear lake surface
Hokkaido Teshikaga Town
Bus from JR Mashu Station: Take the Akan Bus regular route bus to Lake Mashu, it takes about 20 minutes. Bus from JR Kawayu Onsen Station: Take the Akan Bus regular route bus to Lake Mashu, it takes about 40 minutes. Train from JR Kushiro Station: Take the JR Senmo Line, it takes about 90 minutes.
Cherry blossom viewing at the lakeside of Onuma Park
Hokkaido Nanae Town
From JR Hakodate Station: Hokuto Express: Approx. 20 minutes, Local train: Approx. 50 minutes
Goryokaku Park Cherry Blossom Illumination
Hokkaido Hakodate City
Streetcar: Take the train from "Hakodate Station" to "Goryokaku Park" (approximately 16 minutes, 230 yen). After getting off, walk for about 15 minutes. Bus: Take the train bound for "Goryokaku" or "Goryokaku Park Entrance" (approximately 20 minutes, 280 yen). After getting off, walk for about 5 to 10 minutes.
Spring Nature Walk at Shiretoko Five Lakes
Hokkaido Shari Town
Access from JR Shiretoko-Shari Station Bus: Take the "Shari Bus Shiretoko Line" and arrive at the "Shiretoko Goko" bus stop in about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Car: About 40 km from Shiretoko-Shari Station (approximately 1 hour). Parking is available (paid, 100 spaces). Taxi: Available directly from the station, but the fare is more expensive than the bus.
Koshimizu Primeval Flower Garden: Spring alpine plant viewing
Hokkaido Koshimizu Town
JR Gensei-kaen Station: A temporary station that operates for a limited time from May 1st to October 31st. It is about a 1-minute walk from the station to the Gensei-kaen. JR Hamakoshimizu Station: Accessible by walking for about 5 minutes. From Abashiri Station: About 32 minutes by bus.
Otaru Canal Spring cherry blossoms
Hokkaido Otaru City
About 10 to 15 minutes walk from JR Otaru Station.
Hakodateyama Observatory Cherry blossoms and night view
Hokkaido Hakodate City
Take the tram from Hakodate Station and get off at the "Jujigai" stop. From there, walk up Nanbuzaka for about 7 minutes to arrive at Mount Hakodate Ropeway Sanroku Station.
Trappist Monastery: Cherry Blossoms and Historical Walking
Hokkaido Hokuto City
Dounan Isaribi Railway Oshima Tobetsu Station: Approximately 20 minutes on foot. Leave the station and head straight towards the monastery to arrive. Local bus (from Hakodate city): Get off at the "Trappistine Iriguchi" bus stop and walk for about 5 minutes. From JR Hakodate Station: Approximately 40 minutes by car (you can also use a taxi or bus).