Situated in the centre of the Kameda peninsula, Hakodate is a port city on Hokkaido's south-east coast. Founded in the early 15th century, it's brimming with history - in fact, it was one of the first cities to be opened up to international trade in the 19th Century after Japan's isolationist Edo Period. Our collection of the best places to stay in Hakodate are beautiful traditional properties perfect for soaking in the city's history.

The city has a distinctive feel, and look, with a buzzy atmosphere and notable Western influences. French and British trade interest in the 1860s led to the arrival of a number of expats, which subsequently brought with it the construction of a number of churches (most of which are still standing).

Visitors can enjoy splendid views, delicious seafood, and plenty of culture to get stuck into. However, be sure to book ahead as the best places to stay in Hakodate get quickly booked up.

What Not To Miss

• Hike up Mount Hakodate and revel in sumptuous views of the city - it's an experience you won't regret!
• Spend an afternoon wandering around Goryokaku Park. Filled to the brim with cherry trees, it's especially gorgeous from April to May when they're in blossom.
• If you're into your architecture then The Old Public Hall of Hakodate Ward, Hakodate Orthodox Church, and The Old British Consulate of Hakodate are top spots to visit.

The Best Places to Stay in Hakodate

For the city centre

• On the coast outside Hakodate, Kappo Ryokan Wakamatsu is a 24 room inn with charming traditional features and beautiful detail. there’s a splendid milts-course Kaiseki menu in their restaurant and the baths are quite something.
• Yunokowa Prince Hotel Nagisatei boasts traditional tatami-style accommodation with splendid views of the city. Enjoy both Japanese and Western-style cuisine in the restaurant.
• Bourou Noguchi, in downtown Hakodate, has 79 rooms in styles ranging from traditional Japanese to Western. There are rooftop open-air baths and an excellent restaurant. This is an upmarket option but well worth it.
• La Vista Hakodate Bay offers swish Art-Deco style accommodation with en-suite bathrooms. Tuck into delectable cuisine from the Hakodate Bay Gourmet Club.

For an apartment

If you'd prefer the privacy of a self-catering option then browse through the options available with our partner, Booking.com.

Travel Information

• The most common way for international visitors to arrive on Hokkaidō is via New Chitose Airport just outside Sapporo.
• If you’re thinking about hiring a car we recommend checking what our online partners, Rentalcars, have to offer.
• Hokkaidō is very much a year-round holiday destination as far as Japanese visitors are concerned. This is where much of Japan’s best skiing is found, so it’s popular in winter, but it’s also appreciated for its natural beauty, so spring and autumn are also very popular - especially cherry blossom season, which is early May, and the autumn colours in October are quite something. Summer is warm, sunny, and very, very colourful - the wildflowers here are spectacular.

Still Not Sure?

• Browse through our entire list of the best places to stay in Hakodate.
• Widen the net to include our recommendations in Sapporo.
• Or, feel free to contact one of our friendly gurus for advice.