[IN & OUT Airport Trip] A Journey Through Stunning Night Views
![[IN & OUT Airport Trip] A Journey Through Stunning Night Views](/lsc/upfile/course/0000/0068/68_1_l.jpg)
- Spring
- Summer
- Autumn
- Winter
- Days required
- 3 days and 2 nights
- Main methods of transportation
- Train, Streetcar
Vast and full of contrasts, Hokkaido reveals its beauty best when you fly in and out through different airports for arrival (IN) and departure (OUT). With 12 airports across the region (including some currently not in service), travelers can design unique itineraries that highlight Hokkaido’s diverse attractions.
"Airports for This Journey"
IN Airport: Hakodate Airport
OUT Airport: New Chitose Airport
This trip connects two of Hokkaido’s most vibrant cities—Hakodate and Sapporo—through a night view journey unlike any other. From the sparkling lights of Mt. Hakodate, often ranked among the World’s Three Greatest Night Views, to the breathtaking cityscape of Sapporo, officially recognized as one of Japan’s Three Most Spectacular Night Views, this itinerary offers a feast for the eyes.
Along the way, you’ll also have the chance to enjoy Hokkaido gourmet specialties. In Hakodate, fresh seafood awaits at the morning market, while Sapporo tempts you with rich miso ramen and savory grilled lamb (jingisukan). This is a journey where unforgettable views and flavors come together.
- * The spots and experience menus introduced in the course are subject to change. Please check the official website for the latest information.
- * Please note that the text shown on this page includes machine translations.
[IN] Hakodate Airport
Your journey begins at Hakodate Airport!
Flights to Hakodate Airport are available from Haneda Airport (Tokyo), Chubu Centrair International Airport (Nagoya), Itami Airport (Osaka), New Chitose Airport (Sapporo), Okadama Airport (Sapporo), and Okushiri Airport.
JR Hakodate Station
From Hakodate Airport, head straight to the heart of the city at JR Hakodate Station!
From JR Hakodate Station, you can transfer to the Hakodate City Tram (streetcar) to explore the city conveniently.
Hakodate Haikara-Go (Regular 2025 services are suspended)
The popular, instagrammable retro streetcar
Travel in the city on the Hakodate Haikara-go, a streetcar that roams the streets of Hakodate! The retro exterior and interior of this streetcar makes it a popular attraction. It operates only for a limited period and mainly on weekends and national holidays during the operating period (does not operate during bad weather, such as rainy days).
- Address
- 函館市駒場町15-1函館市電駒場車庫
- Telephone Number
- 0138-52-1273
- Open
- Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays from April to October
Strolling Through the Western District
From the “Hakodate Ekimae” stop, get off at “Suehirocho.”
Take the streetcar from Hakodate Station to Suehiro-cho to begin a charming walk. This district, full of nostalgic historical and Western-style buildings, churches, and stone-paved slopes, preserves the exotic atmosphere of old Hakodate. Enjoy the romantic scenery and create unforgettable memories.
Retro Spots in the Western District
- Hachiman-zaka Slope
- Hachiman-zaka Slope is one of Hakodate’s most scenic attractions, with a straight street leading the eye toward the sparkling blue sea and harbor below. Steps and handrails along the walkway make it easy and safe for everyone, including those who find slopes difficult, to enjoy a pleasant stroll. Visitors especially love the romantic atmosphere at sunset, when the sky glows, the historic streets are bathed in warm light, and the ocean shimmers. With its picturesque view and nostalgic charm, Hachiman-zaka Slope is a must-see stop on any Hakodate sightseeing route.
- https://www.visit-hokkaido.jp/en/spot/detail_10089.html
- Hakodate Orthodox Church
- Built in 1860, Hakodate Orthodox Church was Japan’s first Russian Orthodox church and remains a symbol of the city’s unique international character. The original chapel, attached to the Russian Consulate, marked the start of Orthodox missionary work in Japan when young priest St. Nicholas arrived in 1861. Although the first building was destroyed in the Great Fire of Hakodate in 1907, the present structure was rebuilt in 1916. Its exotic domes and elegant Western design attract countless visitors. In 1983, it was designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan, securing its place as a treasured landmark.
- https://www.visit-hokkaido.jp/en/spot/detail_10017.html
- Motomachi Roman Catholic Church
- Founded in 1859 by French missionary Father Mermet de Cachon, this Roman Catholic church is among Hakodate’s most historic Christian landmarks. The present Gothic-style building, completed in 1924, is admired for its striking appearance and graceful design. Inside, visitors can see a precious altar sent by Pope Benedict XV after a devastating fire, the only altar in Japan ever gifted directly from the Pope. With its beautiful architecture, deep cultural ties, and rare treasures, the church is an essential destination when exploring Hakodate’s atmospheric Motomachi district, where Western influence still lingers.
- https://www.visit-hokkaido.jp/en/spot/detail_10101.html
- Hakodate St. John's Church
- The history of Hakodate St. John’s Church, an Anglican church, began in 1874 when British missionary Walter Denning arrived to start his work in Hakodate. The church’s roof was designed to form the shape of a cross when viewed from above, making it one of the city’s most distinctive and elegant buildings. The original structure was lost in repeated fires, but the present church was rebuilt at its current site in 1921 and later renovated in 1979. Today, Hakodate St. John’s Church continues to welcome visitors, offering a meaningful glimpse into the city’s Christian heritage and its international past.
- https://www.visit-hokkaido.jp/en/spot/detail_10092.html
- Former British Consulate of Hakodate
- Built in 1913 by the Shanghai Works Bureau of the British Government, the Former British Consulate of Hakodate is a graceful Western-style building with elegant white walls. Until 1934, it served as the official consulate. Today, the building houses the Opening Port Museum, where visitors can learn about the history of Hakodate as an international port through fascinating exhibits and displays. On the first floor, the Memorial Hall features a remarkable bird’s-eye map of Hakodate covering the entire floor. The consulate also offers a tea room, where guests can relax in a refined British atmosphere after sightseeing.
- https://www.visit-hokkaido.jp/en/spot/detail_10202.html
The Western District of Hakodate is home to many retro spots where visitors can experience the charm of the city’s historic past. From old Western-style buildings to cultural landmarks, this area offers a unique glimpse into Hakodate’s international heritage.
Mt. Hakodate Ropeway
Take your time to admire the beautiful scenery from the ropeway
Be moved by the views spreading out right below you from the ropeway! You can take your time to enjoy the seasonal views, from cherry blossoms to snowy landscapes. The ropeway operates from 10:00 until the last descent at 22:00 (21:00 from October 1 - April 19). You can enjoy different views depending on the time of the day, such as scenery of the rich natural landscape during the day, and the shimmering views at night. (Barrier-free, free loan of wheelchairs)
- Address
- 函館市元町19-7
- Telephone Number
- 0138-23-3105 (general information) 0138-23-6288（Ropeway operation and fare information)
- Open
- 10:00 - 22:00 (October 1st - April 19th: 10:00 - 21:00).
Runs every 15 minutes (every 5-10 minutes during busy periods).
The last uphill departure is 10 minutes before closing time.
Note: The ropeway may be temporarily suspended around autumn for maintenance and inspection. Please inquire for details. - Closed
- Open all year round (service may be suspended for periodic inspections; please check)
Mt. Hakodate Observatory
Enjoy an exciting moment with a Michelin three-star night views
Mt. Hakodate is the symbol of Hakodate. Admire Hakodate's cityscape from the rooftop observatory and enjoy beautiful views that have been selected as three-star views in the Michelin Green Guide Japan. Another highlight is the magical views at sunset.
- Address
- 函館市函館山
- Telephone Number
- 0138-23-3105
- Open
- 10:00-22:00 (4/20-9/30), 10:00-21:00 (10/1-4/19)
- Closed
- Open all year round
Daimon Yokocho
Enjoy gourmet delights at famous food stalls
This is a "Yatai Mura" (a "village" of stalls) lined with more than 20 small eateries, located near Hakodate Station. Enjoy a wide range of gourmet delights such as seafood dishes and oden. Each stall can seat about 10 customers. Experience the unique atmosphere and comfort that only food stalls can offer.
- Address
- 函館市松風町7-5
- Telephone Number
- 0138-24-0033
- Open
- 11:00-1:00 (Depends on the store)
[Accommodation] Hakodate
Hakodate Morning Market
A fun morning market for shopping and eating!
The Hakodate Morning Market is described as a specialty of Hakodate. It is also easily accessible, just one minute on foot from Hakodate Station. A collection of about 250 stores offer a dizzying array of fresh ingredients from Hokkaido, including seafood such as crabs and salmon, as well as vegetables and fruits sold directly from the farms.
- Address
- 函館市若松町9-19
- Telephone Number
- 0120-858-313
- Open
- 6:00-14:00 (Jan.-Apr.)
5:00-14:00 (May-Dec.)
*Depends on the store - Closed
- Open all year round (Depends on the store）
JR Hakodate Station
JR Sapporo Station
Mt. Okura Observatory
Spectacular views, as if you were standing at the top of a ski jump!
An observation lounge positioned on Okurayama Ski Jump, used for ski jump competitions in the 1972 Winter Olympics. The views from the lounge, which stands at the starting point of the 370-meter high ski jump, are spectacular! A grand panoramic view of Sapporo's cityscape spreads out beyond the approach.
You can take a two-seater lift or escalator to reach the observation lounge. The lift is the actual lift used by competitive ski jumpers.
- Address
- 札幌市中央区宮の森1274
- Telephone Number
- 011-641-8585
- Open
- (Summer: 4/29-10/31) 8:30-18:00
(Night: 7/1-9/30) 18:00-21:00
(Winter: 11/1-4/28) 9:00-17:00 - Closed
- Dec.31-Jan.1
Susukino
A great entertainment district in Hokkaido that is renowned across Japan
The largest entertainment district north of Tokyo and one of Japan's three greatest entertainment districts, Susukino is well-known across Japan.
Susukino, which some say has a nighttime population of about 80,000 people, is lined with about 3,500 shops of various genres, from restaurants and karaoke to hotels. Enjoy the excitement of the district that never sleeps!
- Address
- 札幌市中央区
- Telephone Number
- 011-518-2005
[Accommodation] Sapporo
Nijo Market
Hokkaido's blessings of nature under one roof at this historical market of over 125 years old!
Nijo Market, located at the heart of Sapporo, is a lively market resonating with the highly spirited voices of sellers. Find the souvenir that you have been looking for from among the wide range of fresh seafood, such as crabs, salmon, and salmon roe, as well as processed marine products and fruits, available at the fishmongers and local specialty shops!
- Address
- 札幌市中央区南3条東1～2丁目
- Telephone Number
- 011-222-5308
- Open
- 7:00-18:00 (Depends on the store)
- Closed
- Depends on the store
Shiroi Koibito Park
A sweets theme park where you can see, learn, savor, and experience.
Observe the production process of Sapporo's representative confectionery, "Shiroi Koibito," experience making sweets, and learn about the history of chocolate. There is also a cafe where you can sample original sweets. This is a theme park that everyone, from children to grownups, can enjoy!
- Address
- 札幌市西区宮の沢2条2丁目11-36
- Telephone Number
- 011-666-1481
- Open
- 10:00-18:00 (Admission until 16:30)
- Closed
- Open all year round
JR Tower Observation Deck T38
360-degree panoramic views from the tallest point in Hokkaido!
JR Tower is directly linked to Sapporo Station. If you take the dedicated elevator all the way up to the top floor on the 38th floor, you will be rewarded with panoramic views from 160 m above the ground. Be captivated by the extraordinary scenery from the highest floor in Hokkaido.
- Address
- 札幌市中央区北5条西2丁目5JRタワー38F
- Telephone Number
- 011-209-5500
- Open
- 10:00-22:00 (last entry 21:30) *Subject to change due to events, etc.
- Closed
- Open all year round
[OUT] New Chitose Airport
New Chitose Airport is the main gateway to Hokkaido, with flights connecting to major cities across Japan and around the world. From here, you can easily connect to your flight home after a memorable trip.
![[IN & OUT Airport Trip] Hokkaido's Ultimate Open Road: Heritage, Gardens & Wellness](/lsc/upfile/course/0000/0092/92_1_m.jpg)
