A famous night view of Japan.
The view was spectacular but very crowded.
We had to go there 2 hours prior to sunset.
Even so, we still couldn't find a good viewing spot.
After waiting for the sun set for 2 hours, the view we got was above the other shoulder or head.
When we traveled back down it was also chaotic.
I had read some reviews before my trip pointing out that the lines to go back were extremely long and that that detail made the experience less joyful. I must say I completely agree with that.
First, given the low season, the cable car was not running, so there were only buses running from Hakodate station every ten minutes. This is where the first flaw is found. The buses at the station can only ride people seated, meaning that if you can’t get on the bus, you must wait ten minutes for the next one. Funny enough, that bus stops 5 minutes later in a different place where other people are also lining up, but they can ride it while standing and with no need to wait. In such case, I’d recommend then to get on the bus in front of the Kokusai Hotel, where you wouldn’t have to wait at all.
Up in the hill, apart from the view (which is okay, not remarkable in my opinion), there’s nothing else. Just a small souvenir shop and that’s it. So basically, your visit can be reduced to 15 minutes while you take the pictures. But at the same time, you will be stormed to see the line of people waiting to take the bus down. Initially I thought it was going to be eternal, but it ended up being approximately 30 minutes. You can also go down walking, apparently, but being alone in the dark in the Hokkaido woods doesn’t sound like a good idea.
To sum up, if you really want to check the view, go ahead but be advised that 80% of your trip you will be waiting for the bus or on it.
The view on the main deck is excellent!!! Thankfully was free of tourist! However, while restaurant view was beautiful and food was sumptuous, it was a bit pricy. However, crowd-less experience and tasty food made up for experience, so I’m giving 5 stars!!!
A great place to get a view of Hakodate above all the noise. There is the gondola that takes you up to the top of Mt Hakodate. About a 3 min ride.
Be aware that evening times are quite popular and there will be a line up to 45-60 minutes long to use the gondola to go either way.
Great view ruined by hoardes of Chinese tourists in tour groups who are, objectively, the rudest people on the planet. They camp-out, 3-4 people deep, to secure the best vantage points and will not let anyone through to take a quick photo. Just download some photos from the internet and save yourself the expense and frustration. If you are less than 180cm (6ft) you will struggle to get your camera above all the hordes. Seriously. Wonderful location ruined by greed of the operators, ill-mannered Chinese tour groups seeking land rights and serious overcrowding.
