Hotels in Hakodate

Hakodate: Where Timeless Temples Meet Blossoming Beauty

Nestled on the southern tip of Hokkaido, Hakodate seamlessly blends stunning ocean views with rich history and culture. Explore the charming downtown, where historic buildings and vibrant markets await. Don’t miss the breathtaking panorama from Mount Hakodate, especially at sunset. Relax in soothing hot springs, visit the picturesque Hakodate Park, or wander through local temples and museums. The stunning Hakodate Bay offers a perfect backdrop for romantic strolls, while seasonal flower displays add to the city’s allure. With its unique charm and captivating experiences, Hakodate is an unforgettable destination for every traveler. For the best hotel rates in Hakodate, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Hakodate

Hakodate offers a diverse range of hotel accommodations, from modern hotels with stunning views of Goryokaku Tower to cozy inns that reflect local charm. Popular options include comfortable chain hotels, such as those near Shiyakushomae Station, and stylish hotels with amenities for leisure and business travelers. For a more home-like experience, consider Hakodate apartments. With various facilities catering to different budgets, you're sure to find the perfect stay for your vacation. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in Hakodate:

1. Bourou NOGUCHI Hakodate RyokanOpens in a new window: This luxurious 4.5-star hotel is situated approximately 2 miles from the heart of Hakodate. Ideal for travelers seeking a hot spring experience, it features a natural hot spring onsite. Guests can enjoy a full spa offering body treatments, sauna, and outdoor mineral springs, making it a perfect spot for relaxation after a day of exploring.
2. Hanabishi HotelOpens in a new window: Located about 1.5 miles from Hakodate, this 4.0-star ryokan is well-suited for both business and leisure travelers. With onsite hot springs and multiple meeting rooms, it offers a unique blend of relaxation and functionality. Guests can indulge in various spa services, including advanced massage options and facial treatments, ensuring a rejuvenating stay.
3. La Vista Hakodate BayOpens in a new window: Just 2 miles from Hakodate, this 4.0-star hotel is a great choice for those looking for a serene getaway. Featuring both indoor and outdoor public hot springs, it provides a tranquil environment. The onsite spa offers a variety of treatments, including aromatherapy and sauna, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.

Things to do in Hakodate for first time

A visit to Hakodate typically requires three days to fully embrace its stunning natural landscapes, featuring serene beaches, lush mountains, and tranquil parks. Travelers can enjoy a variety of activities such as boating, hiking, and shopping, all while immersing themselves in the vibrant local culture and seasonal festivals. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Hakodate:

• Day 1: Start your adventure in Hakodate at the Danshaku History Museum, where you can delve into the rich historical tapestry of the area. After exploring the museum, head over to the tranquil Houkiji Temple, a serene spot perfect for reflection and immersing yourself in local culture. Finally, visit the Trappist Monasteries, where you can appreciate the unique architecture and perhaps sample some delicious local treats made by the monks.
• Day 2: Begin your day at Onuma Quasi-National Park, where the stunning landscapes and serene lakes provide a perfect backdrop for hiking or picnicking. Continue your exploration by ascending Mount Yoshinoyama, where panoramic views of the surrounding nature await you. Conclude your day at Mt. Komagatake, a striking mountain that offers exhilarating hiking trails and breathtaking vistas, particularly at sunset.
• Day 3: Kick off with a visit to Omazaki Cape, known for its stunning coastal views and picturesque scenery. Next, head to Nigorikawa Onsen, where you can unwind in the soothing hot springs—perfect for relaxation after a day of exploration. Finish your itinerary at Gourd Swamp Park, a unique natural area where you can enjoy leisurely walks and appreciate the diverse flora and fauna that thrive in this peaceful environment.

5 tips to find a great Hakodate hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Hakodate is between January and March, when hotel prices are significantly lower. For international travelers looking for great value for money, it’s advisable to book your flight at least eight months in advance to secure more affordable rates. To fully appreciate the city's main attractions, plan to stay for at least 2-3 days. Notable sites in Hakodate include beautiful temples, informative museums, and impressive monuments, all offering a rich experience without breaking the bank.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Hakodate, Hotels.com is the place to check. Head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section to uncover great rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. You could find fantastic savings and good availability for your stay. To maximize your chances of scoring these discounts, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you'll stay informed about flash sales and special promotions that could help you save significantly.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Hakodate.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Hakodate is usually more expensive. If you opt for accommodations further from the city center, you can take advantage of transportation options like trains, trams, and buses, or even walk to explore the area, which can help you save on costs.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in Hakodate and be a part of Hotels.com's free One Key program, which enables members to take advantage of reward points for hotel bookings. Progress through the tiers of Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum to unlock advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Start earning reward points now.

What to eat in Hakodate

Here are some famous dishes in Hakodate, Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan:

• Kaisen Don: This vibrant seafood bowl is a must-try in Hakodate, featuring a colorful array of fresh sashimi atop a bed of warm rice. Local fishermen bring in daily catches, ensuring that each bowl showcases the ocean's bounty, including tuna, salmon, and octopus. Often enjoyed for lunch, kaisen don reflects the region's rich maritime heritage and dedication to freshness.
• Hakodate Shio Ramen: Known for its light, salty broth, this unique ramen offers a comforting experience, especially on chilly days. The broth is made from quality seafood and chicken, and it's typically topped with green onions, chashu pork, and a soft-boiled egg. Enjoying a bowl at a local ramen shop is a quintessential Hakodate experience, often shared among friends in a lively atmosphere.
• Uni (Sea Urchin): Revered for its creamy texture and briny flavor, fresh uni is a delicacy that highlights Hakodate's seafood prowess. Served as sushi or sashimi, this dish captures the essence of the sea, making it a favorite among food enthusiasts. Many local restaurants pride themselves on sourcing the highest quality uni, providing a truly memorable tasting experience.

Best time to go to Hakodate

Hakodate experiences its lowest average temperatures in January and February, at 29.5°F (-1.4°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 71.1°F (21.7°C). August tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Hakodate are April, July, and August, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, February, March, and November are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.