By 街撮りch
This walking tour begins in the heart of Hakodate, Hokkaido, near the famous Goryokaku Koen Mae Station (五稜郭公園前駅). The video creator reaches Hakodate after an epic 18-hour ferry journey from Tomakomai, making this the first filming stop on a broader trip across Hokkaido. Hakodate stands at the southern tip of Hokkaido, offering visitors a unique blend of local charm and popular tourist attractions.
The video captures both the historic and modern aspects of Hakodate. While the area around Hakodate Station is bustling with tourists, particularly by day, the nearby restaurant district maintains a more authentic local feel. Viewers are shown lively streets where residents go about their daily lives, contrasting with the busier parts of the city visited by tourists. A highlight of the tour is the renowned Goryokaku Tower (五稜郭タワー), a star-shaped fort area and one of Hakodate’s most famous landmarks. From its observation deck, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city and the iconic fort below—though the popularity of the spot sometimes results in elevator waits during peak hours.
As evening falls, the video explores how the local nightlife takes over. The streets around Goryokaku become dotted with women outside bars—possibly ‘girls’ bars’ or snack bars—and representatives of nightlife businesses work the sidewalks, contributing to the area’s vibrant night scene. This transition highlights the dual personality of Hakodate: a destination equally suited for sightseeing and local entertainment.
For those planning to visit, Goryokaku Koen Mae Station provides convenient access to both the park and tower. Goryokaku itself is historically significant, originally built as a western-style fort in the 19th century and now a popular park, especially during cherry blossom season. The station area is well-connected and offers a range of local eateries and bars, making it an excellent starting point for both day and night exploration of Hakodate.