Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Hachimanzaka is a typical slope in the Motomachi district of Hakodate City, Hokkaido, and is one of the tourist spots that symbolizes the landscape of Hakodate. Located in a corner of Motomachi, where foreign settlements and exotic Western-style buildings lined the streets during the Meiji period, the steep slope that descends in a straight line to the sea offers panoramic views of Hakodate Bay and the harbor. Old stone pavement, Western-style buildings, and roadside trees line both sides of the slope, and with its different appearances in each season, it is a popular photo spot for both domestic and international tourists.
Highlights
- View of Hakodate Bay from the front of the hill: A classic photo spot is the composition of the harbor from the middle to bottom of the hill. It is also beautiful on clear days and at night (with the lights around the route).
- Nearby Western-style buildings and churches: You can stroll around the area and see the historical architecture of the Motomachi area (near the former British Consulate, Hakodate Orthodox Church, etc.).
- Seasonal scenery: The fresh greenery and cherry blossoms of spring, the autumn leaves, and the snowy scenery of winter are particularly photogenic. The snow-covered slopes have an atmosphere like a scene from a movie.
- Cityscape atmosphere: Stone walls, old street lamps, and the linear perspective of the slopes create a picturesque landscape.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- JR: Approximately 10-15 minutes by taxi from JR Hakodate Station (depending on traffic conditions).
- City Tram (Streetcar): Take the Hakodate City Tram to either Jujigai or Motomachi Station, then walk for about 5-10 minutes. This is a convenient sightseeing route.
- Bus: There are local buses from Hakodate Station and the Bay Area. The bus stop is within walking distance.
- By car: Parking is limited due to the city location. You can either use a nearby paid parking lot, or park in a parking lot near Hakodate Station and take the tram.
- Walking: It's about a 20-30 minute walk from the Bay Area (Red Brick Warehouses). We also recommend taking a stroll along the way.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Sightseeing and photography only: 15-30 minutes. If you want to take your time taking photos, 30-45 minutes.
– A stroll around the area, including the surrounding churches and Western-style buildings: 1 to 2 hours (depending on the time spent visiting each facility).
– If you want to take photos in the light before and after sunset, plan to stay for a longer period of time (more than an hour).
Nearby spots
- Motomachi Park and Hakodate Orthodox Church: Accessible within a few minutes on foot. A group of exotic buildings.
– Former Hakodate Ward Public Hall (Old Public Hall): You can tour the interior of this Western-style building.
- Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse (Bay Area): Shopping and dining spot. Accessible by foot or tram.
- Other slopes such as Jujigai, Motoizaka, and Chacha Nobori: Easy to incorporate into walking routes around Motomachi.
– Mount Hakodate Ropeway (travel to the base of the mountain by car or bus): If you want to enjoy the night view, head to Mount Hakodate.
Things to be aware of (crowding, etiquette, seasonal precautions, etc.)
– Crowds: The area tends to be crowded with tourists during the tourist season (spring to autumn), on cruise ship arrival days, and on weekends. Please be considerate of others when using photo spots.
- Etiquette: When taking photos, be careful not to obstruct roads or traffic. Do not enter private property or restricted areas of buildings.
- Traffic safety: Vehicles also pass on slopes, so be careful of cars and bicycles, especially while shooting. Visibility is reduced at night, so be careful of your footing.
- Barrier-free: Due to the steep slopes, there are some sections that are difficult to navigate with wheelchairs or strollers. If you are not confident in your mobility, please do not attempt this route.
- Seasonal precautions: In winter, snow and ice can make the trail slippery. Non-slip shoes and cold weather gear are essential. In bad weather, visibility can be poor, making it difficult to see the scenery.
- Business hours and tour information: We recommend checking in advance as the opening hours of surrounding facilities (church opening hours and tourist facilities) change depending on the season and day of the week.
Tips on how to enjoy
– Visit early in the morning or at dusk (golden hour) for better lighting and fewer crowds.
– We also recommend taking a break at a cafe in Motomachi and looking out over the hills and the harbor.
– You can enjoy a plan to thoroughly explore the Motomachi area in half a day to a full day, combining it with other slopes and historical buildings.
