Mount Hakodate - Hokkaido, Japan
I came to Hakodate mainly for the seafood, but I also wanted to visit Mount Hakodate, known for offering one of Japan’s top three night views, alongside with Mount Inasa in Nagasaki and Mount Maya in Hyogo.
It was a short bus ride from Hakodate Station to the Mount Hakodate Ropeway. Since my visit was during the Christmas season, the ropeway station area was beautifully decorated with festive lights and ornaments. I bought my ticket and waited to board — there was a bit of a line, but the ropeway runs frequently enough that the wait wasn’t long.
After arriving at the top, I found that the building housed a few souvenir shops, a café, and a restaurant. I made my way to the observatory, stepping from the warmth inside into the biting winter wind. The temperature difference was instant, but the view made it worth it. Below, the city lights sparkled against the dark sea, clearly outlining where the land met the water. I set up my camera for a few long-exposure shots but didn’t linger too long in one spot — many others were eager to enjoy the same incredible view.
I spent around fifteen minutes outside, taking it all in. It was easy to see why this is called the “Ten Million Dollar View” and why it earned three stars in the Michelin Guide. After I’d had my fill, I returned indoors to browse the souvenir shops. As I was shopping, I noticed the line for the ropeway down had grown quite long, so I made my purchase quickly and joined the queue.
I’d love to return someday to hike up the mountain during daylight hours and take in the views from a different perspective. However, the trail was closed for the winter season during my visit, so that adventure will have to wait for a future trip.
Background
Mount Hakodate (函館山), standing at 334 metres, is a forested mountain located at the southern tip of Hokkaido. The site was once a military fortification and remains largely undeveloped to preserve its natural beauty. Its unique geography, surrounded by the sea on three sides, creates a narrow isthmus where Hakodate city lights up at night—producing the world-famous view often compared to Naples and Hong Kong. The mountain is especially popular during winter when clear, crisp air enhances visibility across the bay.
Japan’s Top Three Night View: Read about the other two here — Mount Inasa and Mount Maya.
Getting There
From Hakodate Station, take the local bus to Ropeway-mae Bus Stop (about 10 minutes). The Mount Hakodate Ropeway is a three-minute ride to the summit, offering panoramic views even before you reach the observatory. Alternatively, during the warmer months, visitors can hike up from the base, though the trail is closed in winter for safety. The ropeway operates until late evening, making it ideal for catching the city lights.
Route Overview
Duration: 6 min (Ropeway ride + few mins walk to observatory)
Peak: Mt Hakodate 函館山 334m
Note: During summer/fall/early winter, you can hike up the mountain, but the trail is closed in winter.
Cost Breakdown
Bus: Hakodate Station → Ropeway-mae Bus Stop — ¥240
Mt. Hakodate Ropeway: ¥1,500
Souvenir: ¥825
