The 334m summit of Mt. Hakodate offers a view that is difficult to match anywhere in Japan. Hakodate is built on a narrow tombolo — a strip of land connected to the mainland — which means the city is flanked by sea on both sides, creating a stunning hourglass shape when viewed from above at night. Ranked as one of the world's great night views, the summit is accessed by ropeway in about 3 minutes (return ¥1,800). Arrive before sunset to see the panorama evolve as night falls.

A large, bustling market just steps from JR Hakodate Station, open from around 6am. Hundreds of stalls sell Hokkaido's finest seafood — sea urchin, salmon roe, hairy crab, scallops, and the local speciality squid. Donburi Yokocho Market is dedicated to seafood rice bowl restaurants, where you can have a luxurious breakfast of fresh sea urchin or crab on rice. Some stalls also offer live squid fishing experiences (in season).

Completed in 1866, Goryokaku was Japan's first Western-style fortification, designed in the shape of a five-pointed star. It was the site of the Battle of Hakodate (1868–1869), the final conflict of the Boshin War. The 107m Goryokaku Tower offers a full aerial view of the star-shaped moat — a remarkable sight. In spring, about 1,600 cherry trees bloom inside the fort walls, making it one of the best cherry blossom spots in Hokkaido. Tower admission ¥500; Goryokaku Park is free.

A group of red brick warehouses built in 1909, converted into a shopping and dining complex on the Hakodate Bay waterfront. The rustic brick buildings house souvenir shops, cafés, and restaurants, and the waterfront setting makes it a pleasant place to walk around at any time of day. In the evening, the warehouses are illuminated, and the Christmas illuminations are particularly spectacular.

The hillside district at the foot of Mt. Hakodate is home to one of the most evocative collections of Meiji and Taisho-era Western-style buildings in Japan — churches, consulates, and merchants' houses that speak to Hakodate's history as an international port. The Old Hakodate Ward Public Hall (1910), the Hakodate Orthodox Church (rebuilt 1916), and Motomachi Catholic Church are all within easy walking distance. The bay views from the slopes, especially at dusk, are outstanding.

Japan's first convent for women, founded in 1898 by Trappistine nuns from France. The brick building and beautifully maintained gardens create a serene and picturesque setting. The interior is not open to the public, but the exterior and grounds can be visited. The convent's butter toffees and biscuits, made by the resident nuns, are sought-after souvenirs. Free admission.