Hokkaido Shinkansen Opens: Five Must-Visit Spots in Hakodate to Experience Northern Charm

By MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Network Editorial Team
 
The section of the Hokkaido Shinkansen between Shin-Aomori Station and Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station officially opened on March 26. Traveling on the sleek, speed-inspired Hokkaido Shinkansen—capable of reaching speeds up to 260 km/h—it takes just about four hours from Tokyo to reach Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station, allowing travelers to plan more diverse and exciting itineraries for their Japan trip.

After the opening, the Tohoku Shinkansen will take passengers through the Seikan Tunnel built under the sea, allowing direct travel from Tokyo to Hokkaido without transfers. After passing through the tunnel, passengers can enjoy the stunning natural landscapes of Hokkaido through the shinkansen windows. Upon arrival at Hakodatehokuto Station, you can take the "Hakodate Liner" to reach the city center in just about 20 minutes.

● Goryokaku
Goryokaku is a uniquely shaped star-shaped fortress. The park is filled with cherry blossom trees, making it a famous spot for hanami (cherry blossom viewing) in spring. The main variety is the Yoshino cherry, with around 1,600 trees blooming along the star-shaped fortress during the cherry blossom festival. Aside from strolling and enjoying the flowers in the park, visitors can also head to the observation deck of the nearby Goryokaku Tower to admire the panoramic view of the star-shaped "Goryokaku Ruins" surrounded by pink cherry blossoms.

● Old Public Hall of Hakodate Ward
In Hakodate, it's great to explore the surroundings. Especially in the Motomachi area, you can admire Western-style buildings such as the former Hakodate Ward Public Hall, as well as unique Japanese-Western fusion structures unique to Hakodate, immersing yourself in the area’s distinctive charm.