Hakodate (Hakodate City, Hokkaido)

Seen from Mt. Hakodate, the urban nightscape is said to be the world's most impressive nightscape and it attracts many domestic and overseas visitors. In particular, the first half hour after sunset is famous for offering the most beautiful view. In addition, the bright lights emitted by the squid-fishing vessels drifting on the sea from June through March add a touch of romantic inspiration to the nightscape.

In 1859, along with Yokohama and Nagasaki, Hakodate City was one of the first international trading ports opened in Japan, and accordingly, there are numerous historical structures incorporating elements of Western culture within the city. In the western part of the city at the foot of Mt. Hakodate, there is a concentration of former foreign delegations, religious facilities, and the like, retaining some of the atmosphere of those days of old, and this part of town is a popular destination for many tourists.

With roughly 360 years of history, Yunokawa Onsen is one of the prominent hot spring areas in Hokkaido. At present, there are thirty-six hot springs source wells in the area, which boasts the largest accommodation capacity in Hakodate. Yunokawa Onsen is also conveniently located only five minutes away from Hakodate Airport by car. In the summer (at the end of August), a grand festival is hosted in the local area and many tourists come to see the fireworks spectacle.