Hakodate Day Tour to Goryokaku and Onuma Parks and Scenic Railway

Explore southern Hokkaido's highlights on this day tour from Hakodate. Visit the iconic star-shaped Goryokaku Park, stroll through the serene Onuma Quasi-National Park, and enjoy the coastal views aboard the South Hokkaido Railway. The journey also includes a peaceful visit to the historic Trappist Monastery, known for its picturesque tree-lined approach. This tour is perfect for those wanting to experience the rich history and natural beauty of the Hakodate region without the hassle of transportation planning. - Visit Goryokaku Park, Japan's first Western-style fortress - Enjoy free time at the scenic Onuma Quasi-National Park - Ride the coastal South Hokkaido Railway for stunning views - Convenient departure and return from Hakodate

Itinerary

1. After meeting your tour conductor at JR Hakodate Station West Exit, travel approximately 5 minutes to Hakodate Kokusai Hotel, where additional participants may join the tour before sightseeing begins. Travel approximately 15 minutes to Goryokaku Park, one of Hakodate's most famous historical landmarks. Originally built as a star-shaped fort in the final years of the Edo period, Goryokaku was Japan's first Western-style fortress and is now designated as a National Special Historic Site. The distinctive five-pointed layout is best appreciated from above, while the park itself offers pleasant walking paths and a chance to experience an important chapter of Japanese history. From nearby Goryokaku Tower, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the fort, Hakodate City, Mount Hakodate, and the Tsugaru Strait. You will also have free time for lunch at your own expense during your visit. (1h 30min)
2. Travel approximately 45 minutes to Onuma Quasi-National Park, one of Hokkaido's most celebrated natural landscapes. Recognized as one of Japan's New Three Views, the park is famous for the beautiful scenery created by its lakes, small islands, and the majestic silhouette of Mt. Komagatake. Walking through the area, visitors can enjoy a landscape that changes throughout the seasons, offering a peaceful contrast to the urban atmosphere of Hakodate. *The designation of Japan's New Three Views was selected by Jitsugyo no Nihon Sha, highlighting the park's significance as a scenic destination. (50 min)
3. After approximately 30 minutes, arrive at Kamiiso Station to begin a scenic railway journey along the coast. (15 min) Admission included
4. Board the South Hokkaido Railway in non-reserved seating and enjoy a 18-minutes ride along the shoreline of the Tsugaru Strait. This local railway follows the coastline, offering views of the sea and the surrounding Hokkaido landscape. The relaxed pace of the journey provides an opportunity to experience everyday life in the region while enjoying scenery that is difficult to access independently. *Please note that the train operated on the day of travel may differ from the one on the photo. (5 min)
5. After arriving at Oshima-Tobetsu Station and a short transfer of approximately 5 minutes, visit the Trappist Monastery, Japan's first Catholic monastery for men. One of the monastery's most recognizable features is the long avenue lined with cedar and poplar trees leading toward the grounds. This picturesque approach has been featured in television commercials and is known for its peaceful atmosphere. Surrounded by nature, the area offers beautiful scenery throughout the year, from fresh greenery in spring to colorful foliage in autumn and snow-covered landscapes in winter. The quiet setting provides a glimpse into a different side of Hokkaido's history and culture. (20 min)
6. Travel approximately 35 minutes toward the Hakodate area. Guests staying in the Yunokawa Onsen area may choose to disembark at Yunokawa Onsen Umi to Akari by Hewitt Resort, making this tour easy to incorporate into a longer stay in Hakodate. After approximately 15 minutes bus ride, continue to JR Hakodate Station. The tour concludes at JR Hakodate Station West Exit around 4:35 PM. (5 min)

Meeting & end point