Hokkaido Official Tourism Site HOKKAIDO LOVE!

The Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden is home to about 300 species and 3,000 tropical plants, including rare and uniquely named trees such as the Ice Cream Tree and the Breadfruit Tree, which are seldom seen in Hokkaido.

In addition to its diverse plant life, the garden offers plenty of attractions for families. There is a Monkey Mountain, footbaths, playground equipment for young children, battery-powered cars, and a refreshing water plaza that make it a perfect day-trip destination for locals and visitors from the Hakodate area.

One of the garden’s most popular features is the Japanese macaques bathing in a dedicated hot spring during the cold months. From December until about the Golden Week holidays in May, visitors can enjoy watching these adorable monkeys warming themselves in the hot spring—a heartwarming and uniquely Hokkaido experience.

The garden also occasionally hosts photography and pottery workshops, so be sure to check the official website for the latest event information.

Yunokawa Hot Spring, one of Hokkaido’s three major onsen resorts, is a historic onsen in Hakodate cherished for its long-standing reputation. Steeped in history, local legend recounts how the therapeutic waters once healed a seriously ill Matsumae Clan feudal lord, cementing its status as a cherished sanctuary.

Conveniently located about 10 minutes by car from Hakodate Airport and near downtown Hakodate, it serves as an ideal base for exploring the city. The hot spring area features numerous ryokan and hotels offering fresh Hokkaido seafood and seasonal delicacies. A must-try is relaxing in the open-air baths (rotenburo), which offer stunning, panoramic views of the Tsugaru Strait.

From June through December, keep an eye out for the shimmering lights of squid fishing boats (Isaribi) illuminating the night sea—a truly magical spectacle unique to Hakodate. In addition, the free foot baths in the district provide a casual and relaxing experience where both locals and travelers can enjoy a peaceful moment during sightseeing.

At Yunokawa Hot Spring, you can enjoy history, breathtaking scenery, delicious food, and soothing waters—all in one place. Make Yunokawa Onsen the restorative centerpiece of your Hokkaido adventure.

Just about a 1-minute walk from Hakodate Station, the Hakodate Morning Market is a must-visit culinary destination with excellent access. Its origins date back to 1945, right after the end of World War II, when local farmers began selling vegetables and fruits in front of the station.

Today, about 250 shops line the bustling market, offering everything from fresh seafood like crab and salmon to locally grown vegetables and fruits straight from the farms of Hokkaido. You'll also find an impressive variety of local delicacies, snacks, and even daily necessities. Since some shops may sell out by early afternoon, it’s best to visit in the morning.

At the “Ekini Market” area, don’t miss the Live Squid Fishing Pond, where you can catch a squid yourself and enjoy it as fresh sashimi—an experience you can only find in Hakodate. Be sure to explore every corner of the market, including the “Hakodate Morning Market Plaza,” which features a local goods area, fresh produce section, and food court, as well as “Donburi Yokocho Market,” where you can indulge in top-quality seafood rice bowls made with the freshest ingredients.

In recent years, the market has introduced new services such as the unique “Select Morning Market” certification system, value-packed gift assortments called Tamatebako, and the convenient Smartphone Morning Market online shopping site.