Located on the west side of Hakodate City in Hokkaido, Mount Hakodate is not only a famous natural landmark but also a sacred spot for night view enthusiasts. This 334-meter-tall mountain, with a circumference of about 9 kilometers, is nicknamed "Sleeping Cow Mountain" because its shape resembles a cow lying down. Mount Hakodate is actually a tied island, formed by volcanic activity in the past. About 5,000 years ago, sediment accumulation connected it to the Oshima Peninsula, and today, the center of Hakodate City sits atop this natural landform.
Mount Hakodate consists of 13 peaks, with major ones including Goten-yama (334 meters), which has an observation deck, as well as Yakushi-yama, Azalea-yama, Hachiman-yama, and Suimoto-yama, each offering unique features. The observation deck atop Goten-yama can be reached by the Hakodateyama Ropeway, by car (via Route 675), or by hiking. However, from April 25 to October 15 each year, private cars and motorcycles are restricted in the evenings to ensure smooth traffic and climbing safety. Additionally, starting from mid-October, the ropeway undergoes annual maintenance, so be sure to check transportation updates in advance.
For travelers who love hiking, Mount Hakodate offers several walking trails. The most popular route starts from Horai-cho tram stop, passes by the ropeway base station and Hakodate Gokoku Shrine, and stretches about 2.8 kilometers, taking roughly one hour to hike. Another route from the north side, starting at Hakodate Dock-mae Station, is shorter but much steeper. Since there are no lights along these trails at night, if you plan to hike after dark to enjoy the night view, make sure to bring a headlamp or flashlight.
The highlight of Mount Hakodate is undoubtedly its breathtaking night view. As night falls, the slender, waist-shaped city lights of Hakodate sparkle below, framed by the dark Tsugaru Strait and the dotted lights of fishing boats in the distance, creating a truly enchanting scene. Legend has it that if you spot light patterns resembling the kanji for "love" (喜) or "heart" (心) among the sea of lights, happiness will follow — making Mount Hakodate a romantic destination for couples. The night view here, alongside Mount Maya in Kobe and Mount Inasa in Nagasaki, is celebrated as one of the "Three Great Night Views of Japan".
Please note that during spring and summer, Mount Hakodate is prone to fog, which can affect visibility, so it's recommended to visit on clear days for the best experience.
Whether you're admiring the distant Shimokita Peninsula by day or losing yourself in the sea of twinkling lights by night, Mount Hakodate is undoubtedly a must-visit when traveling to Hokkaido!
