A relaxing 3-day Hokkaido trip — no need to worry even if it's your first solo journey~

We embarked on our Hokkaido self-guided journey in the almost coldest season of the year, traveling directly from Tokyo to Hakodate. We began our short three-day adventure in Hakodate, exploring the region freely and casually. There were no grand ice floes in Abashiri, no dazzling icy waterfalls in Sounkyo Gorge. We got up early like locals to stroll around Hakodate Morning Market, went hiking in Lake Onuma National Park, savored the sweetest king crabs, and enjoyed hot springs under the cold night sky — all while discovering views of Hokkaido’s cityscapes that group tours usually miss...

★★★ Recommended Spot = Hakodate Morning Market
Just a 3-minute walk from JR Hakodate Station, Hakodate Morning Market boasts nearly 400 shops. King crabs and squids are must-try and must-buy local specialties. Don’t hesitate when roadside vendors offer you free samples of grilled snow crab legs — they’re completely complimentary. Sea urchin lovers shouldn’t miss the fresh sea urchin at the market — split directly in half, sprinkled with wasabi and soy sauce, and eaten raw — the sweet richness is truly unforgettable...Click to see all attraction introductions

★★★ Recommended Spot = Goryokaku Park
Goryokaku is an unusually shaped star-shaped fortress and the site of the last battle (the Battle of Hakodate, 1868–1869) where supporters of the shogunate resisted the imperial army during the Meiji Restoration. As such, it holds significant importance in Japan’s modern history. The park is covered with cherry blossom trees, making it a renowned spot for cherry blossom viewing in spring...Click to see all attraction introductions

★★★ Recommended Spot = Yukawa Onsen Hot Springs
When it comes to Yukawa Onsen, nothing beats the sea fireflies during the squid-catching season. Several well-known hot spring hotels along the hot spring street take pride in offering open-air baths with views of these twinkling sea lights. From early summer to late autumn during the squid fishing season, soaking in the hot springs while gazing at the sparkling sea fires creates a truly enchanting atmosphere...Click to see all attraction introductions

★★★ Recommended Spot = Hakodate Night View from Mount Hakodate
After nightfall, Hakodate transforms into a dazzling spectacle, and the best place to enjoy it is from Mount Hakodate. Thanks to its unique geography, Hakodate’s night view is famed for its distinctive fan shape, ranked among the world’s top three night views alongside Hong Kong and Naples in Italy, and known as the “Million-Dollar Night View.” This breathtaking view — worth a million just to see — is a must-see for every visitor to Hakodate. From the mountaintop, you not only get a sweeping panoramic view due to the elevation, but also enjoy the added bonus of the peninsula on which Mount Hakodate sits — a secluded piece of land connected to the main city area by a narrow strip of land, giving the cityscape a rare double-curved silhouette that is truly awe-inspiring. The fan-shaped night vista is beautifully complemented by the twinkling lights of fishing boats on the nearby sea. And if you visit during the holiday season, the addition of colorful street lights, Christmas trees, and spectacular fireworks displays unique to festive occasions make the night view even more magical...Click to see all attraction introductions

★★★ Recommended Spot = Okura-san Jump Arena
The 1972 Winter Olympics were held in Sapporo, and a high-quality ski jumping facility was built on Mount Okura. Though the Sapporo Olympics have long passed, the top-notch facilities at Okura-san Jump Arena remain world-class even today. From the top of the jump tower, you can enjoy a full view of Sapporo’s cityscape — and if you’re lucky, you might even catch sight of top athletes practicing...Click to see all attraction introductions