Address: 2-3 Wakakusa-cho, Shiraoi-cho, Shiraoi-gun, Hokkaido 059-0902
Access: About 1 hour from New Chitose Airport
Parking: Available

A great introduction to driving spots in Hokkaido! ~ Guide to courses suitable for beginners ~
Introducing driving courses in Hokkaido! Hokkaido has many driving routes that you can enjoy driving on your trip. From Sapporo to Hakodate, Furano, Asahikawa, Wakkanai, Tokachi, and Shiretoko... When traveling around the vast Hokkaido, rental cars are a great way to get around to various tourist spots! A common style of tourism is to visit famous places while driving. A journey across Hokkaido
's long trip roads, which are different from those of Honshu... There is plenty to be attracted to, such as tourist spots with budding autumn and green leaves, seaside areas with magnificent views of the sea and mountains, and endless natural scenery surrounded by cherry blossoms and white birch trees. Let's take a look at what kind of adventures await you!
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A great introduction to driving spots in Hokkaido! ~ Guide to courses suitable for beginners ~
- ▶ Recommended driving spots in the Sapporo area
- 1. From New Chitose Airport to Sapporo city via Upopoy and Lake Shikotsu
- 2. Driving route starting from Sapporo and going around Otaru and Yoichi
- 3. A long drive from Sapporo through Jozankei to Mt. Yotei and Niseko
- Hoheikyo Onsen (Jozankei, Minami Ward, Sapporo)
- 4. A driving course from New Chitose to Noboribetsu and Lake Toya
- 5. Recommended driving spots in Sapporo
- ▶Recommended driving spots in the Hakodate area
- 1. A driving course around Mt. Komagatake from Onuma Quasi-National Park
- 2. A driving course around Matsumae that will teach you about the Emishi people in the Edo period
- 3. Head to Hakodate's night view! Drive around the famous spots in Hakodate city
▶ Recommended driving spots in the Sapporo area

If you fly into Hokkaido at New Chitose Airport and want to enjoy driving and sightseeing in Sapporo, it's easy to plan a trip around Sapporo, Otaru, Yoichi, the surrounding areas of Jozankei and Mt. Yotei, Lake Shikotsu and Shiraoi Upopoy near Chitose, and further on to Noboribetsu Jigokudani and Lake Toya. The longest route is from Sapporo to Lake Toya, which takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes one way, so depending on your itinerary, it may be possible to make a round trip from Sapporo in a day.
1. From New Chitose Airport to Sapporo city via Upopoy and Lake Shikotsu
Upopoy Symbolic Space for Ethnic Coexistence (Shiraoi Town)

This ethnological museum was built on the shores of Lake Poroto with the aim of promoting and spreading Ainu culture. You can learn about Ainu history and culture in detail through visuals, materials, and re-enactments and hands-on exhibits. It also carefully introduces how Ainu culture is being passed down and lives on in modern-day Hokkaido, and you can get a bird's-eye view of the history of Hokkaido as a whole. Inside the museum, there is a shop selling Ainu-related souvenirs and materials (books), and there is a food and drink corner near the entrance gate to the facility, so it is also recommended as a place to take a break during a drive.
Lake Shikotsu (Chitose City)

It is the second deepest lake in Japan and is known as the northernmost lake that never freezes. Not only is the lake itself beautiful, but the majestic Mt. Eniwa, Mt. Fuppushi, and Mt. Tarumae that can be seen beyond it are also spectacular. The unique topography created by an ancient eruption evokes the primeval landscape of Hokkaido, and the beautiful natural formations that give a sense of the workings of the earth and its mystery are worth seeing. There are several types of boats that travel the lake (underwater sightseeing boats, high-speed boats, and pedal boats), but they are not open in winter. If you want to enjoy activities, spring to autumn is recommended. In winter, there are fewer tourists and you can enjoy it at a leisurely pace. If you're looking for a meal, try the specialty chip (a delicious kokanee salmon dish)!
Address: Lake Shikotsu Onsen (Lake Shikotsu Visitor Center), Chitose, Hokkaido, 066-0281
Access: About 1 hour and 10 minutes from Upopoy
Parking: Available (500 yen per time)
Sapporo city

Head towards Sapporo city via National Route 453. There are mountain roads along the way, so if you are visiting in the winter, make sure to arrange a rental car (4WD/studless/chains) that can handle snowy roads. *Sapporo's driving spots will be introduced in detail later.
Address: Sapporo, Hokkaido
Access: About 1 hour and 10 minutes from Lake Shikotsu Visitor Center
2. Driving route starting from Sapporo and going around Otaru and Yoichi
Otaru Canal (Otaru City)

If you're driving to Otaru, we recommend the Otaru Canal, a famous landmark of the city. Along the canal, there are souvenir shops and restaurants unique to Otaru, and their nostalgic exteriors will add to the excitement of your trip. There are also many tourist facilities in the area, so be sure to check out any spots that interest you. If you have time, you can also take a canal cruise or go to the Tenguyama Observatory to see the spectacular view of Otaru.
Address: 5 Minatocho, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0007
Access: About 1 hour and 10 minutes from Sapporo
Parking: Otaru City Tourist Parking (600 yen per time)
Otaru Sankaku Market (Otaru City)

Sankaku Market, known as the kitchen of Otaru citizens, is a popular tourist spot for tourists. You can enjoy Otaru's seafood and the specialty seafood bowl at a reasonable price. There is a huge selection of delicious seafood, including large Atka mackerel and Shishamo fish, which are hard to find on Honshu, white fish called Hakkaku, standard scallops, sea urchin, salmon roe, crab, and more. In addition to seafood, they also have a wide selection of agricultural products that are famous in Hokkaido. If you're driving to Otaru, be sure to have lunch at Sankaku Market.
Address: 3-10-16 Inaho, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0032
Access: 5 minutes by car from the Otaru Canal
Parking: Station Square Parking (free for up to 30 minutes)
Yoichi Distillery / Nikka Whisky (Yoichi Town)

Once you've reached Otaru, why not extend your trip to Yoichi? Yoichi is famous for Nikka Whisky, and you can tour the factory, museum, and distillery. Taketsuru Pure Malt is served in the tasting corner, so you can experience the history of whiskey production with your tongue. Drivers who can't drink alcohol can enjoy the apple juice that has been made since the company was founded. Purchase some whiskey as a souvenir and enjoy it when you get back to your hotel. Yoichi Distillery also offers a lunch tour where you can enjoy the pairing of whiskey with the drink.
Address: 7-6 Kurokawacho, Yoichi-cho, Yoichi-gun, Hokkaido 046-0003
Access: About 40 minutes from Otaru Sankaku Market
Parking: Available
3. A long drive from Sapporo through Jozankei to Mt. Yotei and Niseko
Yunohana Jozankeiden (Jozankei, Minami Ward, Sapporo)
Jozankei is a hot spring town located in Minami-ku, Sapporo. It is popular with Sapporo residents and tourists who want to enjoy hot springs while sightseeing in Sapporo. If you are going for a drive using Jozankei as your base, we recommend staying at one of the popular inns that line the hot spring town. It is about an hour's drive from downtown Sapporo. If you are stopping by Jozankei on a drive, we recommend Yunohana Jozankeiden, which offers day-trip bathing. For a reasonable price (adults: 850 yen / elementary school students: 400 yen / infants: 200 yen / infants: 0 yen), you can enjoy a high-quality hot spring experience, including cave baths and saunas. The "walking set" that includes a lunch box and tea for bathing is also popular. There are also massages and a game corner, so families can have fun.
Address: 330 Jozankei Onsen Higashi 4-chome, Minami-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 061-2302
Access: 1 hour from Sapporo city
Parking: Available
Hoheikyo Onsen (Jozankei, Minami Ward, Sapporo)
This hot spring facility has an indoor bath and three types of open-air baths. It boasts 100% carefully selected flowing water and one of the largest open-air baths in Japan. The water moisturizes the skin, making it popular as a beauty bath. In addition to the hot springs, there is also an Indian restaurant, and the unique combination of hot springs and Indian curry is popular among young people. Enjoy the synergistic beauty effect of eating spicy curry with the hot springs. There are also plenty of seasonal activities such as canoeing in Hoheikyo, Kamakura Jingisukan, snowshoe trekking, and barbecues. The admission fee for the bath facilities is 1,000 yen for adults, 500 yen for children, and free for infants.
Address: 608-2 Jozankei, Minami-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 061-2301
Access: 5 minutes from Yunohana Jozankeiden
Parking: Available
Fukidashi Park (Kyogokucho)

This beautiful park is located in Kyogoku Town at the eastern foot of Mt. Yotei, and boasts the largest amount of spring water in Hokkaido. You can spend a relaxing time while looking at Mt. Yotei. In addition to the roadside station "Meisui no Sato Kyogoku," the park also has a cafe (take-out) that serves home-roasted coffee and a Genghis Khan restaurant, making it a perfect location for a break and a useful drive. Even the moss steaming on the rocks in the park is atmospheric and soothing. As it is a spring, you can take some spring water home with you. If you have a container, try filling it up and drinking it. Mt. Yotei's underground water is delicious and has a reputation for making coffee, tea, and other dishes delicious.
Address: 45 Kawanishi, Kyogoku-cho, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido 044-0131
Access: About 1 hour from Toyohirakyo Onsen
Parking: Available
Mt. Yotei Natural Park (Makkari Village)

Trekking during the drive may be difficult, but if you want to see Mt. Yotei as close as possible, try making a detour to Mt. Yotei Nature Park. You'll be able to see Mt. Yotei right before your eyes. There is a parking lot with a toilet, so it's a great place to take a short break.
Address: 〒048-1605 Makkari Village, Abuta District, Hokkaido Access: About 20 minutes from Fukidashi Park
Parking: Available
Roadside station "Niseko View Plaza" (Niseko Town)

Once you've reached Mt. Yotei, take a drive towards Niseko, famous for its powder snow. If you're visiting in winter, you can stay at a ski resort, or in other seasons, just wander around the town. A recommended driving spot is the roadside station "Niseko View Plaza." In addition to the popular locally grown vegetables and rice sold in the free space, the information plaza sells delicious local sake, cheese, sausages, and sweets. The takeaway homemade potato chips, cheese tarts, and potato mochi are also popular among tourists who come for a drive. Of course, you can also get a beautiful view of Mt. Yotei up close.
Address: 77-10 Motomachi, Niseko-cho, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido 048-1544
Access: About 15 minutes from Mt. Yotei Nature Park
Parking: Available
4. A driving course from New Chitose to Noboribetsu and Lake Toya
Noboribetsu Jigokudani (Noboribetsu City)

Noboribetsu's Jigokudani is a hot spring town and scenic spot that represents Hokkaido. It is a hot spring tourist destination that is crowded with tourists from inside and outside the prefecture. There are walking paths in the surrounding area, where you can observe the heartbeat of the earth up close. The area around Jigokudani is a major hot spring tourist destination, and there are many hot spring inns where you can not only stay overnight, but also take a day trip to bathe. It is also recommended to take a dip in the hot springs while driving. You can also visit many scenic spots such as the marshes (Oyunuma and Oku-no-yu) that were formed after the volcanic eruption, observation decks (Kuttaraku Observation Deck and Jigokudani Observation Deck), and Iron Spring Pond.
Address: No. 059-0551, Noboribetsu Onsen-cho, Noboribetsu, Hokkaido
Access: About 1 hour from New Chitose Airport *Use the Do-o Expressway
Parking: Noboribetsu Jigokudani Parking (500 yen)
Day trip bathing at Noboribetsu Jigokudani:
Accommodations near Noboribetsu Jigokudani that offer day trip bathing include Noboribetsu Sekisuitei, Onsen Sento Yumemoto Sagiriyu, Noboribetsu Manseikaku, Kashotei Hanaya, Noboribetsu Grand Hotel, Daiichi Takimotokan, and Hotel Yumoto Noboribetsu. Many of the hot springs are directly sourced, so you can enjoy high-quality hot springs. If you are visiting Noboribetsu without staying overnight, be sure to try out these day spas.
Noboribetsu Sekisuitei: 203-1 Noboribetsu Onsen-cho, Noboribetsu, Hokkaido, 059-0596 Yumegen Sagiriyu: 60 Noboribetsu Onsen-cho, Noboribetsu, Hokkaido, 059-0551 Noboribetsu Manseikaku: 21 Noboribetsu Onsen-cho, Noboribetsu, Hokkaido, 059-0551 Kashoutei Hanaya: 134 Noboribetsu Onsen-cho, Noboribetsu, Hokkaido, 059-0551 Noboribetsu Grand
Hotel : 154 Noboribetsu Onsen-cho, Noboribetsu, Hokkaido, 059-0551 Daiichi Takimotokan: 55 Noboribetsu Onsen-cho, Noboribetsu, Hokkaido, 059-0551 Hotel Yumoto Noboribetsu: 29 Noboribetsu Onsen-cho, Noboribetsu, Hokkaido, 059-0551
Noboribetsu Bear Farm and Lake Kuttara Observatory (Noboribetsu City)

If you go to Jigokudani, Bear Ranch is also a recommended driving tourist spot. This is a rare zoo specializing in bears, even in Japan, where you can observe the wild and cute bears' lives up close. You can use the ropeway to access the bears' living area, which adds an extra spice to your tourist experience. Beyond the summit station, in addition to the bear ranch, there is an observation deck overlooking Lake Kuttara, where you can enjoy the spectacular view.
Address: 224 Noboribetsu Onsencho, Noboribetsu, Hokkaido 059-0551
Access: 10 minutes walk from Noboribetsu Jigokudani Parking Lot
Parking: Noboribetsu Jigokudani Parking Lot
Lake Toya (Toyako Town)

After enjoying Noboribetsu to the fullest, why not extend your trip to Lake Toya? Lake Toya is a caldera lake at the foot of Mount Usu, formed by an eruption about 110,000 years ago. There are small islands in the center of the lake (Oshima, Bentenjima, Kannonjima, and Manjujima), which can be accessed by a sightseeing boat. If you drive around Lake Toya, make a detour to Toyamizu-no-Eki and Usuzan Toyako Observatory, and if you have time, enjoy a sightseeing boat, a stroll around the lake, or the long-running fireworks display at night (held from July to October). The sightseeing boat sails between the small islands, giving it a sense of adventure and fun. There are also many hot springs and accommodations, so if you are coming from New Chitose, we recommend staying overnight at Lake Toya.
Toya Onsen Town: 1 Toyako Onsen, Toyako-cho, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido 049-5721
Showa Shinzan Station: 184 Showa Shinzan, Sobetsu-cho, Usu-gun, Hokkaido 052-0102 Toyamizu
Station: 100 Toyachō, Toyako-cho, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido 049-5802
Access: About 1 hour from Noboribetsu Jigokudani *Use the Hokkaido Expressway
Parking: Free parking at Lake Toya
5. Recommended driving spots in Sapporo
Hokkaido Shrine and Maruyama Park (Chuo Ward)

Hokkaido Daijingu Shrine is loved by Sapporo residents as a spiritual anchor. Why not visit here first to pray for a safe trip to Sapporo? It is also popular as one of Sapporo's most famous power spots. In addition to praying, be sure to take the time to appreciate the magnificent structure of the main hall. Once you're done praying, stop by Rokkatei teahouse on the grounds. It is a standard for Sapporo residents to eat the famous "Hangansama" (freshly made) before heading home, so enjoy it as per local custom. It is normal to just eat 2-3 pieces, so don't be shy. Other sweets can also be purchased separately, so be sure to eat them at your hotel.
Address: 474 Miyagaoka, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 064-0959
Access: About 20 minutes from Sapporo Station
Parking: Free for 1 hour for worship, free for 2 hours for prayer, 500 yen for other times
Notes: To make parking free, insert your parking ticket into the worship/prayer authentication machine
Mount Moiwa (Chuo Ward)

This tourist spot is located in Minami-ku, Sapporo, and can be accessed by car or ropeway. On clear days, you can see Ishikari Bay and Mount Ashibetsu, and the night view of the big city of Sapporo is also famous for being one of the three most beautiful night views in Japan. The ropeway base station is about 20 minutes by car from Sapporo city. If you go directly to the observation deck via the tourist road, which is available from spring to autumn, it takes about 30 minutes. In autumn, the autumn leaves are beautiful, so we recommend using the ropeway to get a bird's-eye view. In winter, the snowy scenery is fantastic, so it's well worth braving the cold to visit.
Ropeway fare:
Round trip to the summit station: 1,800 yen for adults / 900 yen for children
Round trip to the mid-mountain station: 1,200 yen for adults / 600 yen for children
*One-way tickets are also available. The fare is half the price of the round trip .
Address: 5-3-7 Fushimi, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 064-0942 (Ropeway base station)
Access: About 11 minutes from Hokkaido Shrine
Parking: Available
Hiragishi Takadai Park (Toyohira Ward)

Located in a residential area of Toyohira Ward, this park may look ordinary at first glance, but it is actually popular among fans as the location for the opening of Hokkaido's popular variety show "Wednesday Dodesho (HTB)". It is known as a sacred place among "Hanshi (a nickname for Dodesho fans)", and many fans visit the area when they travel to Sapporo. The old HTB building next to the park has already closed, but on-chan (HTB's mascot character, famous for being dressed by actor Yasuda Ken) still stands in one corner of the building, so take a photo of him as a souvenir of your trip to Sapporo. This is a park for locals located in a residential area, so please visit quietly and observe the rules. If you are accessing the park by rental car, there is no parking lot at the park, so please use the paid parking lot near Minami Hiragishi Station.
Address: 4-13-8 Hiragishi, Toyohira-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 062-0934
Access: About 15 minutes by car from the foot of the Mt. Moiwa Ropeway station
Parking: There is a paid parking lot near Minami Hiragishi station
Sapporo Hitsujigaoka Observatory (Toyohira Ward)

Hitsujigaoka Observatory, famous for its statue of Dr. Clark, is a classic tourist spot in Sapporo. The view of the Agricultural Research Center grounds (where sheep sometimes graze in summer) and the city of Sapporo from the top of the hill is one of the city's most iconic views. With this beautiful view in the background, why not take a photo with Dr. Clark? Many tourists enjoy taking photos in the same pose as the doctor. The Snow Festival Museum, where you can learn more about the famous winter seasonal event, is also worth a visit. Be sure to check out the rest house, where you can buy souvenirs and enjoy a meal.
Admission Fee:
530 yen for adults / 300 yen for elementary and junior high school students
Address: 1 Hitsujigaoka, Toyohira-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 062-0045
Access: About 15 minutes from Hiragishi Takadai Park
Parking: Dedicated parking space available
Moerenuma Park

This large park in Higashi-ku, Sapporo, is known for being designed by the artist Isamu Noguchi. Mount Moere on the premises offers a panoramic view of Sapporo city, and you can also rent a bicycle to explore the spacious park. With an open, spacious location facing the sky, it's a tourist spot where you can feel the vast land of Hokkaido with your whole body. The entire park is designed as a sculpture, so try to imagine the entire environment, including the terrain, exhibits, and the weather of the day, as you explore the park.
Address: 1-1 Moerenuma Park, Higashi-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 007-0011
Access: About 45 minutes from Sapporo Hitsujigaoka Observatory
Parking: There are four parking lots, P1 to P4, in and around the park
Notes: Parking lots P1, 3, and 4 are open from 4/13 to 11/20
▶Recommended driving spots in the Hakodate area

If you want to enjoy driving and sightseeing with Hakodate as the center, we recommend heading north from Hakodate to Morimachi, or heading southwest to Matsumae. A popular route is one that takes in Hokkaido Komagatake, Onuma Quasi-National Park, Matsumae Castle, and other tourist attractions in Hakodate city. There are other recommended driving spots, so we will introduce some that can be visited in a series of routes. All of these can be done as day trips from Hakodate city, so please refer to this if you are planning to go sightseeing by rental car.
1. A driving course around Mt. Komagatake from Onuma Quasi-National Park
Goryokaku (Hakodate City)

Goryokaku, famous as the final stage of the Boshin War, is a standard tourist spot for trips to Hakodate. It is a little far from the train station (11 minutes on foot from Goryokaku Koenmae Station), so if you rent a car, it is recommended to access it by car. There is a park inside the fortress, so you can enjoy a stroll or a tour of the magistrate's office. If you want to see the shape of the five peaks, head to Goryokaku Tower outside the fortress. You can get a bird's-eye view of the castle.
Address: 44 Goryokaku-cho, Hakodate, Hokkaido 040-0001
Access: About 15 minutes by car from Hakodate Station
Parking: Hakodate City Goryokaku Tourist Parking (200 yen for the first hour, 100 yen for every 30 minutes thereafter)
Onuma Quasi-National Park

This quasi-national park and special conservation area in Nanae Town is a beautiful tourist spot where Hokkaido's unique natural environment remains. The view of Hokkaido Komagatake across Lake Onuma is stunning, and you can enjoy cycling and hiking here. The tourist base of the Onuma Town area has many tourist facilities such as restaurants, cafes, and craft beer breweries, so after enjoying the scenery, you can enjoy shopping, meals, and snacks. The dumplings at Numa no Ie, a shop in front of Onuma Koen Station, are especially recommended.
Address: 1023-1 Onumacho, Nanae-cho, Kameda-gun, Hokkaido 041-1354
Access: About 50 minutes by car from Goryokaku
Parking: Paid parking available in front of Onuma Park Station (400 yen per visit)
Roadside Station "YOU・Yu・Mori" / Oniushi Park

This is a tourist attraction and roadside station located in Morimachi, at the northeastern foot of Mt. Komagatake. Many cherry trees are planted in the park, and if you visit around the middle of Golden Week, you can see beautiful cherry blossoms. It is located along the national highway, so it is recommended as a rest stop during a drive. At the roadside station, you can enjoy the famous squid rice and smoked dishes. If the weather is good, be sure to check out the observation deck. If you are lucky, you may be able to see all the way to Mt. Yotei across Uchiura Bay. Don't forget to see the majestic Mt. Komagatake on the other side.
Address: 326, Kamidai-cho, Morimachi, Kayabe-gun, Hokkaido 049-2311
Access: About 30 minutes by car from Onuma Quasi-National Park
Parking: Available
Mori Station/Shibata Shoten

If you want to enjoy Morimachi a little more, why not make a trip to Mori Station? While enjoying the rustic atmosphere and travel mood, it's a good idea to try the famous squid rice at Shibata Shoten in front of the station. The original squid rice ekiben, which is also very popular at product fairs in famous department stores, is sure to leave you with a memorable memory. To commemorate your visit, be sure to take a photo of the Hakodate Main Line running along Funka Bay. We recommend taking a photo around the remains of Mori Pier near the station.
Address: 32 Honmachi, Morimachi, Kayabe-gun, Hokkaido 049-2325
Access: 10 minutes by car from the roadside station "YOU-Yu-Mori"
Parking: Available
National Route 278 and the roadside station "Shikabe Geyser Park"

Once you've enjoyed Morimachi, drive along National Route 278 with Mt. Komagatake to your side. Continue along the road and you'll come to the roadside station "Shikabe Geyser Park." You can enjoy geysers, foot baths, the finest cod roe, Funka Bay bay scallops, and the famous gokko soup. Another popular service is the enthusiastic cooking of ingredients purchased at the roadside station in a steamer that uses volcanic heat. We recommend processed Shirakuchihama makonbu kelp products as souvenirs.
Address: 18-1 Shikabe, Shikabe-cho, Kayabe-gun, Hokkaido 041-1402
Access: About 40 minutes by car from Mori Station
Parking: Available
2. A driving course around Matsumae that will teach you about the Emishi people in the Edo period
National Route 228

The road from Hakodate to Matsumae is almost entirely on National Route 228. All the recommended driving spots are along this national route, so you don't have to worry about getting lost. There are many seaside roads along the way, with the Tsugaru Straits to the side, so you can enjoy an exhilarating drive in the spring and summer seasons.
Trappist Monastery and Grotto of Lourdes

This is a Trappist (Cistercian) monastery in Hokuto City. Although it is not possible to visit the inside of the building, the ice cream, Trappist cookies, and butter candy that can be purchased at the Trappist Monastery Dairy Shop are popular as snacks and souvenirs. It is in a beautiful location surrounded by greenery, so we recommend taking a little walk. If you go further into the monastery area, you will find an observation deck called the "Grotto of Lourdes," so if you have time, drop by. If the weather is good, you can see a mystical and magnificent view.
Address: 393 Mitsuishi, Hokuto City, Hokkaido 049-0283
Access: About 50 minutes by car from Hakodate Station
Parking: Free parking available near the entrance
Satsukari Murakami Moss Phlox Garden

This moss phlox is located along National Route 228, which passes through Kikonai Town. It is managed and maintained by a private individual, but is carefully cared for, and many people visit to see the beautiful moss phlox in full bloom during the flowering season. The best time to see it is around the first week of May, so if you are traveling around Hakodate during Golden Week, be sure to visit. The Dounan Isaribi Railway passing behind the moss phlox is also a nice sight.
Address: 157-7, Satsukari, Kikonai-cho, Kamiiso-gun, Hokkaido 049-0411
Access: About 20 minutes by car from the Trappist Monastery
Parking: A temporary parking lot will be prepared during the flowering season.
Roadside station "Misogi no Sato Kikonai"

This roadside station is located in front of Kikonai Station, where the Hokkaido Shinkansen also stops. It is one of the most highly rated roadside stations in Hokkaido, and is recommended as a place to take a break during your drive. There are plenty of restaurants, offering a wide variety of popular foods, including the famous "seaweed and hijiki soy sauce ramen," salted rum raisin soft serve ice cream, wagyu beef croquettes, Danshaku potato curry bread, and freshly fried potato mochi. You can also enjoy shopping at the convenience store, where you can purchase local specialties from southern Hokkaido.
Address: 338-14 Honmachi, Kikonai-cho, Kamiiso-gun, Hokkaido 049-0422
Access: 6 minutes by car from Satsukari-mura Kami Shibazakura Garden
Parking: Available
Seikan Tunnel Memorial Museum

This museum is themed on the Seikan Tunnel in Fukushima Town. You can learn about the construction records and civil engineering techniques of the Seikan Tunnel through exhibits and videos. If you like trains and tunnels, this is a must-see. You can also get up close and personal with the huge excavators, so it's also fun for people who like machines and heavy machinery.
Address: 32-1 Mitake, Fukushima-cho, Matsumae-gun, Hokkaido 049-1331
Access: 40 minutes by car from the roadside station "Misogi no Sato Kikonai"
Parking: Available
Remarks: Closed during the winter (December 1st to March 16th)
Matsumae Yagoshi Prefectural Natural Park

This is the southernmost point of Hokkaido, located along National Route 228. Other than the spectacular view of the Tsugaru Strait, there is only a stone monument, so it's worth stopping by just to take in the amazing scenery.
Address: Shirakami, Matsumae-cho, Matsumae-gun, Hokkaido 049-1524
Access: About 15 minutes by car from the Seikan Tunnel Memorial Museum
Parking: Available
Matsumae Park (Matsumae Castle) and the roadside station "Kitamaebune Matsumae"

This is a historical park that includes the ruins of Matsumae Castle, the castle tower, and the temple town. It is also known as a famous spot for cherry blossoms in spring and hydrangeas in early summer. The "Sakura Festival" that runs until around May 15th and the "Hydrangea Festival" in early August are popular events. Inside the castle tower is a museum where you can learn about the history of Hokkaido from the Edo period to modern times. The castle tower has been rebuilt, but the Honmaru gate and stone walls remain as they were, and the scars from the Hakodate War are still there. Near the park is the roadside station "Kitamaebune Matsumae," which offers a wide variety of delicious Hokkaido gourmet food, so please visit it for a break after sightseeing at Matsumae Castle. Be sure to try the local specialty, bluefin tuna rice bowl, which you can eat while looking out over the Tsugaru Strait.
Matsumae Park: 〒049-1511 Matsujo
Kitamaefune Matsumae, Matsumae-cho, Matsumae-gun, Hokkaido 049-1506 379 Karatsu, Matsumae-cho, Matsumae-gun, Hokkaido
Access: About 15 minutes by car from Matsumae Yagoshi Prefectural Natural Park
Parking: Available
3. Head to Hakodate's night view! Drive around the famous spots in Hakodate city
Hakodate Morning Market and its Surroundings

If you're going for a drive around Hakodate city, be sure to have a delicious breakfast at the Hakodate Morning Market before you set off. There are many restaurants lined up, but the sea urchin bowls, salmon roe bowls, and seafood bowls at Uni Murakami and Kikuyo Shokudo, and the squid dishes at Live Squid Fishing Pond are particularly popular. If you've had enough seafood, we recommend a quick meal at Lucky Pierrot, the soul fast food of southern Hokkaido. There are many other shops to choose from, so be sure to take your time to explore the market.
Address: 9-19 Wakamatsucho, Hakodate, Hokkaido 040-0063
Access: About 5 minutes on foot from Hakodate Station
Parking: Paid parking available in front of Hakodate Station
Trappistine Monastery

Our Lady of the Angels Trappistine Monastery is a monastery for women located in Kamiyukawa-cho, Hakodate. It has a beautiful red brick church and chapel, making it a popular tourist spot. There is also a museum where you can learn about the history of Hakodate and the monastery. The sweets and processed goods available for purchase at the shop are popular souvenirs, including madeleines, chocolates, coconut cookies and jams. Other than food, we also recommend miscellaneous goods such as letter sets, hand-knitted handicrafts, eco-bags and necklaces. You cannot enter the building, but you can feel the sacred atmosphere just by strolling around the outside, including the gardens and angel statues.
Address: 346 Kamiyukawacho, Hakodate, Hokkaido 042-0914
Access: About 30 minutes by car from Hakodate Morning Market
Parking: There is a parking lot next to the main gate (300 yen per visit)
Notes: If you use the Civic Forest parking lot, it is 200 yen per visit
Hakodate Kosetsuen and Miharashi Park

Hakodate Kosetsuen is also known as the Scenic Kyu-Iwafune Garden. Built in the Meiji era as a villa for a wealthy Hakodate merchant, it boasts beautiful Japanese and Western architectural styles and a diverse garden. It is also known as a famous spot for cherry blossoms in the spring, fireflies in the summer, autumn leaves (which are also lit up) and snowy scenery in the winter, making it a popular tourist spot. If you stroll through the garden early in the morning, you may even spot a Hokkaido squirrel, a great spotted woodpecker and a kingfisher. The location is easily accessible by car, so if you're touring Hakodate by rental car, be sure to visit.
Address: 56 Miharashicho, Hakodate, Hokkaido 042-0956
Access: 10 minutes by car from the Trappistine Monastery
Parking: Available
Cape Tatematsu

A cape jutting out into the Tsugaru Strait in the southeast of Hakodate City, this scenic spot is popular with tourists. In the past, a battery was built here to monitor foreign ships. If the weather is good, you can see Oma in Aomori Prefecture from the cape, so if you're visiting Hakodate during the stable weather seasons of spring to autumn, be sure to stop by. There is an area in the park where Hokkaido's flower, the rose hip, blooms beautifully, and in summer you can enjoy the pleasant scent of the flowers. There is a shop on the premises, so if you get hungry during your walk, try taking a break. You can purchase whelk skewers, grilled corn, fried potatoes, soft drinks, and more.
Address: 9-9 Sumiyoshicho, Hakodate, Hokkaido 040-0045
Access: About 25 minutes by car from Hakodate Kosetsuen
Parking: Available
Kanamori Red Brick Warehouse

Once you've returned to downtown Hakodate, enjoy a meal or some shopping at the Kanamori Red Brick Warehouse, a shopping mall in Suehirocho. This commercial facility is located among a group of warehouses built around 1869, and is popular for its location that perfectly matches the atmosphere of Hakodate's port. In December, Christmas-themed light-ups and fireworks are planned, and if it snows, you can enjoy a beautiful and fantastical space. If you're asking whether to visit during the day or at night, we recommend visiting at night, so why not use it as a stopover to see the night view from Mt. Hakodate?
Address: 14-12 Suehirocho, Hakodate, Hokkaido 040-0053
Access: 12 minutes by car from Tatematsumisaki
Parking: Paid parking available (440 yen for 1 hour, 220 yen for every 30 minutes thereafter)
Notes: Free parking for up to 2 hours if you spend 1,000 yen or more at the facility
Motomachi Park and the surrounding slopes

Motomachi Park, located on the slope at the foot of Mt. Hakodate, is a Western-style park built on the site of the former Hakodate Magistrate's Office. The park offers a beautiful view of Hakodate's cityscape and the sea, making it a popular tourist spot. After seeing the Old Hakodate Branch Office, the Kaitakushi Book Library, and the Four Heavenly Kings statues, try strolling along the "hillside" scenery around the park. The famous Hachimanzaka is a popular photo spot with its view stretching straight out to Hakodate Bay. The Motozaka Road, Higashi-Misaka, and Chacha Nobori in front of Motomachi Park are also quite picturesque. Hachimanzaka is beautiful during the day on a clear day, but at night it transforms into a fantastic sight, so why not visit it as part of your trip to see the night view of Mt. Hakodate?
Address: 12-18 Motomachi, Hakodate, Hokkaido 040-0054
Access: 3 minutes by car from Kanamori Red Brick Warehouse
Parking: Hakodate City Motomachi Tourist Parking (200 yen for 1 hour, 100 yen for every 30 minutes thereafter)
Mount Hakodate

Mt. Hakodate is popular for the beautiful view from the summit. Many travelers visit here as it is the highlight of their trip to Hakodate. It is nice to visit during the day, but if possible, we recommend visiting at night to see the night view of Hakodate. The lights of the port city of Hakodate are so fantastical and beautiful that they are sometimes called one of the three greatest night views in the world. Mt. Hakodate can be accessed by ropeway, but it is only open until 9 p.m., so if you are arriving later in the day, you should drive to the observation deck at the summit. However, depending on the season and time of day, the road may be closed, so be sure to check the official tourist information of Hakodate City before deciding how to get there.
Address: 19-7 Motomachi, Hakodate, Hokkaido 040-0054 (Ropeway base station)
Access: About 3 minutes by car from Motomachi Park (from park to ropeway station)
Parking: There is a tourist parking lot in front of the base station (200 yen for 1 hour / 100 yen for every 30 minutes thereafter)
Note: If you are accessing the observation deck by car, please use the mountaintop parking lot or Katsujiyama parking lot.
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