Japan Guide
Hokkaidō
Hakodate-yama
The 334-metre-high peak, crowned with television signal transmitters, is an excellent spot from which to soak up the town. On a clear day the view is spectacular, but best of all is the night-time panorama, when the twinkling lights of the port and the boats fishing for squid just off the coast create a magical scene – though be prepared for hordes of tourists hanging off the viewing platform railings for a better view. The energetic can climb to the summit along various trails (May– Oct), but most people opt for the cable car (daily: May– Oct 10am–10pm; Nov– April 10am–9pm; ¥640 one way, ¥1160 return), a seven-minute uphill walk from the Jūjigai tram stop. There's also a direct bus from Hakodate Station (end April to mid-Oct 1.15–9pm; 30min; ¥360;). Drivers should be aware that the serpentine road up the mountain is closed to private vehicles between 5pm and 10pm.