Hakodate Mountain

Overview

Hakodate Mountain is located at the western edge of Hakodate City, Hokkaido, and is a tombolo (a land-connected island). Standing at 334 meters above sea level and with a circumference of about 9 kilometers, it's also known as Gyuuzan (臥牛山), meaning "Reclining Cow Mountain," due to its shape resembling a reclining cow. Hakodate Mountain offers more than just stunning views from its summit observatory. It also boasts a rich history as a military fortress from the Meiji era until the end of World War II. Riding the Hakodate Mountain Ropeway to the summit, you'll be greeted by a panoramic view of Hakodate's cityscape below. At night, the city lights create a breathtakingly beautiful nightscape. The magical sight of the fishing lights on the Tsugaru Strait blending with the city lights is particularly awe-inspiring. During the day, on clear days, you can see as far as the Shimokita Peninsula across the Tsugaru Strait, giving you a sense of the grandeur of Hakodate. Furthermore, remnants of the fortress built during the Meiji era are scattered across Hakodate Mountain, offering a glimpse into its past. Hakodate Mountain is a captivating tourist spot where history and nature intertwine.