Last Updated: Apr 16, 2024

Head to Hakodate

One of Hokkaido’s Best Locations

This story was originally published on donnykimball.com and has been syndicated here on Medium

Hakodate… Hakodate… That’s right! I did actually go there last year for 2022’s cherry blossom season!

Somehow, I totally forgot to write about my adventures up in Hokkaido’s third biggest city. How the hell did that happen? Anywho, while I am a bit baffled how I managed to screw the pooch in regards to recounting my adventures, know that Hakodate is definitely someplace that’s worth documenting. So, seeing as cherry blossom season is again now upon us, allow me to present you with my ultimate area guide to the city of Hakodate.

For those of you already not in the know, I’d first like you to make a mental memo that Hakodate can be found in southern Hokkaido on the Oshima Peninsula (that part that sticks out towards northern Honshu). Historically, it was one of the first port cities that were opened to international trade following the end of Japan’s several hundred years of self-imposed isolation. As a result, Hakodate has been the recipient of far more foreign influence than many other parts of Japan. All throughout the city, you’ll find hints to this legacy in Hakodate’s historical buildings.

At least as far as I am concerned, there are two primary reasons why one would want to visit Hakodate. These are the cherry…