Beyond Hachiman-Zaka: 6 Scenic Slopes in Hakodate

The Famous Slopes of Hakodate

Beyond its romantic night views and fresh Morning Market seafood, Hakodate is home to around 20 unique slopes in the historic Motomachi district.

We’ve mapped out a walking route featuring six must-visit slopes—including the iconic Hachiman-zaka—to help you discover the hidden gems along the way.

• Table of Contents
• 1. Hachiman-zaka Slope
• 2. Nijukken-zaka Slope
• 3. Daisan-zaka Slope
• 4. Motoi-zaka Slope
• 5. Higashi-zaka Slope
• 6. Yayoi-zaka Slope

1. Hachiman-zaka Slope

First on the list is the classic Hachiman-zaka. This spot is a favorite for photographers around the clock, offering the most iconic view in the city.

Named after the Hakodate Hachiman Shrine that was once located here, the slope offers a stunning perspective of the harbor. The sight of the distant port framed by lush trees is truly a 'stop-and-stare' moment.

2. Nijukken-zaka Slope

This slope is named Nijukken-zaka for its impressive width of 20 ken (approximately 36 meters).

Because it was once home to many laborers and skilled craftsmen, locals also know it as Daikucho-zaka, or "Carpenter’s Town Slope." Its lush, tree-lined borders have earned it a third name: Midori-zaka (Green Slope).

Historically, Hakodate suffered from frequent fires; following a major blaze in 1879, Nijukken-zaka was redesigned as a firebreak, which is why the road is significantly wider than the others.

If you walk down the slope with Mount Hakodate behind you, you will eventually reach the Hakodate Morning Market.

Places to Visit on Nijukken-zaka

OZIO

Nijukken-zaka is lined with charming boutiques, bars, and restaurants. A standout is OZIO, a leather goods shop where local designers craft unique accessories featuring whimsical animal motifs.

Gotoken: A Famous Western-style Restaurant

A visit to Hakodate isn't complete without dining at Gotoken, a local Western-style landmark. Established in 1879, this historic restaurant now has several branches across the city.

While famous for its signature curry, the menu also features timeless classics like fried shrimp, steak, omurice, and hearty beef stew.

If the extensive curry selection leaves you undecided, try the popular Aigake Curry. This dish pairs Meiji Curry with English Curry, creating a fusion of flavors that reflects Hakodate’s multicultural heritage.

Though it looks simple, the taste is extraordinary—it’s no surprise that many diners stock up on instant curry packs to take home!

Gotoken Main Store Restaurant Yukikawatei

4-5 Suehiro-cho, Hakodate-shi, Hokkaido 040-0053

3. Daisan-zaka Slope

Photo by Pixta

After exploring Hachiman-zaka, be sure to wander over to Daisan-zaka. This charming stone-paved street is lined with exotic Western-style architecture, and its romantic ambiance has earned it a place on the official list of the '100 Best Roads in Japan.'

Fire-resistant rowan trees (Japanese mountain ash) border both sides of the path, creating a stunning scene in autumn when the leaves turn vibrant shades of orange and red.

Framed by the silhouettes of nearby churches, the view is truly unforgettable.

Places to Visit on Daisan-zaka Slope

The Hakodate Motomachi Catholic Church

The Hakodate Motomachi Catholic Church is a centerpiece of the historic Motomachi church district.

Distinguished by its Gothic architecture and soaring bell tower, it ranks alongside the iconic churches of Yokohama and Nagasaki as one of Japan’s oldest Catholic foundations.

Catholic Motomachi Church

15-30 Motomachi, Hakodate-shi, Hokkaido 040-0054

4. Motoi-zaka Slope

Motoi-zaka is named so because it served as the starting point for measurements during the Meiji era (Motoi meaning foundation or origin).

This slope connects many of Hakodate's famous tourist attractions, such as Motomachi Park, the Old Public Hall of Hakodate Ward, and the Old British Consulate.

In the past, the area around Motoi-zaka was an administrative hub, housing the Kameda Magistrate's Office during the Matsumae Domain era, the Hakodate Magistrate's Office during the Shogunate's direct rule, and the Oshima Branch Office from the Meiji to Showa periods.

Before you head up the slope, take a moment to enjoy the scenery as the streetcars pass by!

Places to Visit on Motoi-zaka Slope

Old British Consulate (Opening of the Port Memorial Hall)

Opened to the public in August 1992, the Old British Consulate (also known as the Opening of the Port Memorial Hall) is a must-visit.

Beyond exploring the history of Hakodate in its exhibition rooms, you can relax with a traditional English afternoon tea overlooking a beautiful rose garden.

You can even pick up authentic British souvenirs right here in the gift shop!

Former British Consulate

33-14 Motomachi, Hakodate-shi, Hokkaido 040-0054

Old Public Hall of Hakodate Ward

The stunning Old Public Hall of Hakodate Ward is a designated Important Cultural Property of Japan. Inside, the Meiji-era furniture is meticulously preserved, and the elegant interior is filled with exquisite architectural details.

For a truly unique memory, you can rent formal gowns or tailcoats during certain periods to pose for photos on the second-floor balcony, which offers a grand view of Hakodate Port.

Former Hakodate Public Hall

11-13 Motomachi, Hakodate-shi, Hokkaido 040-0054

5. Higashi-zaka Slope

Photo by Pixta

If you’re feeling energetic, why not take on the challenge of Higashi-zaka? With a steep 14.36-degree gradient, the climb is sure to leave you breathless—but the effort is well worth it.

Because there are no tall buildings blocking the path at the bottom, the summit offers a stunning, unobstructed panoramic view as your reward.

Places to Visit on Higashi-zaka Slope

Along the way, you will pass by the oldest photography studio in Hokkaido, as well as the last remaining Chinese Hall in Japan.

Angelique Voyage

Be sure to stop by Angelique Voyage, a charming dessert shop located just across from the Chinese Hall.

Their smooth ganache chocolates and wide variety of crepes are local favorites, known for being incredibly delicious and consistently popular.

By using only premium ingredients—including rich, local Hokkaido fresh cream—they craft an exceptionally delicious experience in every bite.

Angelique Voyage

3-11 Yayoi-cho, Hakodate-shi, Hokkaido 040-0056

6. Yayoi-zaka Slope

Photo by Pixta

Yayoi-zaka is a peaceful alternative to the busier Hachiman-zaka and Daisan-zaka, seeing far fewer tourists.

As the longest of all the slopes, it actually began as two separate paths until a major fire merged them into a single road; it was later renamed 'Yayoi' as a prayer for the area's prosperity.

Just one-third of the way up, you’re rewarded with a stunning panoramic view of the city—and if you climb a bit further, you can even spot the Goryokaku Fort ruins in the distance.

Enjoy Exploring Hakodate's Motomachi District

Climbing these steep slopes is definitely a workout, but the discovery of a charming shop or a stunning vista makes every step worth it.

If you’re feeling energetic, see how many of Hakodate’s iconic slopes you can conquer—you’re bound to find your own hidden gems along the way.

MATCHA Reminder: Please note that some slopes are quite steep. If you are traveling with children or seniors, be sure to plan your route according to their physical comfort.