Hakodate Station: Gateway to a Charming Port City
Hakodate Station (函館駅, Hakodate-eki) is the main railway station in Hakodate, Hokkaido, Japan. It’s located right near the waterfront and serves as the primary transportation hub for accessing this historic and charming port city. While smaller than Sapporo Station, it’s still an important and convenient station.
Key Features:
- Prime Location: Situated close to the waterfront and popular tourist attractions like the Hakodate Morning Market and the Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse district.
- Access to Key Hokkaido Destinations: Provides rail connections to other major cities in Hokkaido.
- Scenic Views (Partially): While not directly on the coast anymore, you can catch glimpses of the sea from some parts of the station and nearby areas.
- Modern Facilities: A relatively modern and well-maintained station.
What You’ll Find at Hakodate Station:
- JR Ticket Office (Midori-no-madoguchi): For purchasing JR tickets, making reservations, and exchanging Japan Rail Passes.
- Tourist Information Center: A helpful resource for maps, brochures, and information about Hakodate.
- Coin Lockers and Baggage Storage: Convenient for storing luggage while exploring the city.
- ATMs: Available for withdrawing cash.
- Convenience Stores: A few convenience stores for snacks, drinks, and other essentials.
- Restaurants and Cafes: Offers a selection of restaurants and cafes, though less extensive than Sapporo Station.
- Shopping:
- KiraRis Hakodate: A small shopping area within the station with souvenir shops, local crafts, and food products.
Nearby Attractions and Amenities:
- Hakodate Morning Market (Hakodate Asaichi): Just a short walk from the station, offering fresh seafood, produce, and souvenirs. A must-visit!
- Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse District: A historic warehouse district with shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Also a short walk.
- Hakodate Bay Area: The station’s proximity makes it easy to explore the beautiful Hakodate Bay area.
- Hakodate Ropeway (for Mount Hakodate): A bus connection from the station can take you to the ropeway that ascends Mount Hakodate for stunning views of the city.
- Hakodate International Hotel: A well-regarded hotel located near the station.
Transportation Connections:
- JR Limited Express Trains: To Sapporo and other cities in Hokkaido.
- Hakodate Tram (Streetcar): A historic tram system that runs throughout the city. A tram stop is located just outside the station. Very convenient for reaching many attractions.
- Bus Terminal: Local and highway buses to destinations throughout Hokkaido. Located adjacent to the station.
- Taxi Stand: Available outside the station.
Tips for Navigating Hakodate Station:
- Relatively Easy to Navigate: Hakodate Station is smaller and easier to navigate than Sapporo Station.
- Use the Tourist Information Center: If you have any questions, the staff at the tourist information center are very helpful.
- Explore the Waterfront: Take a walk along the waterfront and enjoy the scenic views.
- Take the Tram: The tram is a convenient and charming way to get around Hakodate.
Important Note: Hakodate Station used to be right on the water’s edge. However, it was moved slightly inland to make way for the Hokkaido Shinkansen (bullet train) extension. While you can’t see the water directly from inside the station like you used to, it’s still very close and contributes to the area’s atmosphere.
In Summary:
Hakodate Station is the essential gateway to exploring the beautiful and historic city of Hakodate. Its convenient location and transportation connections make it an easy and efficient starting point for your Hakodate adventure.
- JR Hokkaido Official Website – Provides timetable search, route maps, and train guides. You can search for departure and arrival times, as well as ticket prices. Visit JR Hokkaido
- Timetable Search Page – Allows you to search for train schedules and ticket prices. You can select the departure and arrival stations, and view the first and last trains of the day. Timetable Search
- Hokkaido Shinkansen Information – Information about the Hokkaido Shinkansen, including the “Hakodate Liner” which connects Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station and Hakodate Station in as little as 15 minutes. Hokkaido Shinkansen
