Hakodate Airport (函館空港)

Flow of the course

About this spot

Located close to the city center, this is Hakodate's gateway by air. The terminal building has restaurants and shops, so you can stop by for a meal or shopping even without travel plans. On the roof is an observation deck where planes can be seen taking off and landing up close - for children, the greatest attraction of all. The engine noise and wind as an aircraft begins to move carry a force that photographs can never convey. The shops carry specialties from all over Hokkaido (北海道), so gathering souvenirs here is an efficient use of time. Takamatsu Observation Plaza, your next stop, is very close by, so the travel burden is minimal.

Tips

The observation deck's opening hours change with the season, so check in advance. Looking up flight departure and arrival times before you go up lets you catch the dramatic moments without waiting. The deck is windy with little to block the sun, so a hat and an extra layer make it more comfortable. Restaurants get crowded at midday, so shifting your timing lets you eat in peace.

Best time to visit

About 1 hour 15 minutes. Timing your visit to a busy departure and arrival window is the most exciting

Access & map

511 Takamatsu-cho, Hakodate, Hokkaido 042-0952