What is the Hakodate Port Festival?
The Hakodate Port Festival is a major summer event held every August in Hakodate City, Hokkaido.
The festival began to commemorate the opening of Hakodate Port and has become a traditional celebration where locals and tourists come together to enjoy the festivities.
The highlights include the night sky-illuminating "Doshin Fireworks Display", the citywide parade "Wasshoi Hakodate", and the local participatory "Squid Dance (Ika Odori)".
With the beautiful port town of Hakodate as its backdrop, the Hakodate Port Festival is packed with lively events that let you fully enjoy summer in Hokkaido.
Access and Transportation
By Train & Bus
- From Sapporo Station to Hakodate Station: Take the limited express "Hokuto" — about 3 hours 40 minutes to 4 hours.
- From Hakodate Airport to downtown Hakodate: Shuttle bus takes about 20 minutes.
- From Hakodate Station to the venue: About a 15-minute walk, or take the streetcar toward the Goryokaku area.
By Car
- From Sapporo to Hakodate: Use the Dōo Expressway — about 5 hours 30 minutes.
- Parking: Temporary parking lots are set up around the city, but crowds are expected, so using public transportation is recommended.
Main Events at the Hakodate Port Festival
1. Doshin Fireworks Display (August 1)
Opening the Hakodate Port Festival is the "Doshin Fireworks Display", launched from the waters of Hakodate Port.
About 3,000 fireworks light up the night sky, creating a breathtaking scene that illuminates Hakodate Bay.
Spots where you can see the fireworks together with the night view of Mount Hakodate offer a particularly magical atmosphere.
2. Wasshoi Hakodate (August 2–3)
The main event of the Hakodate Port Festival is the large-scale parade where residents and tourists parade together.
Mikoshi (portable shrines), taiko drummers, and dance teams participate, and many spectators line the streets.
Anyone can join the parade — if you apply in advance, you can experience the festival’s excitement firsthand.
3. Squid Dance (Ika Odori)
The festival’s specialty, the "Squid Dance," is a unique dance themed on Hakodate’s famous squid.
The choreography is simple, so tourists can easily join in.
Events featuring the Squid Dance are also held in shopping streets and public squares around the city during the festival period.
4. Food Stalls & Yatai
The Hakodate Port Festival features many food stalls where you can enjoy Hokkaido specialties.
- Hakodate Ramen: Known for its light salt (shio) flavor.
- Grilled Squid: Made with fresh squid from Hakodate.
- Zangi (Hokkaido-style fried chicken): Juicy and well-seasoned.
How to Enjoy the Hakodate Port Festival
Best Viewing Spots
Recommended spots for the fireworks
- Midori-no-shima (Green Island): An excellent location overlooking Hakodate Bay.
- In front of the Mashu Maru: Enjoy the combination of the ship and the fireworks.
- Mount Hakodate: A luxurious spot to enjoy fireworks together with the city night view.
Viewing points for the parade and Squid Dance
- Goryokaku area: A main street with wide viewing areas.
- Daimon area: Close to the station and full of festival atmosphere.
Hakodate Tourism by Season
Summer (July–August): Hakodate Port Festival & Sea Activities
- Besides the Hakodate Port Festival, you can enjoy beaches and cruising around Hakodate.
- Summer night views from Mount Hakodate are even more beautiful with clear air.
Autumn (September–November): Autumn Leaves & Gourmet Season
- The autumn foliage at Goryokaku Park and Onuma Park is beautiful.
- Seasonal seafood such as autumn salmon and sea urchin are available.
Winter (December–February): Hakodate Illuminations & Snow Scenery
- Hakodate’s Christmas illuminations are enchanting.
- The contrast between snow-covered Mount Hakodate and the city is a highlight.
Spring (March–May): Cherry Blossoms & Hot Springs
- Visit cherry blossom spots like Goryokaku Park and Hakodate Park.
- Relax in the Yunokawa Onsen to welcome the arrival of spring.
Useful Information for Travelers
Event Dates (2024)
- August 1: Doshin Fireworks Display (held at night)
- August 2–3: Wasshoi Hakodate (parade & Squid Dance)
Recommended Accommodations
- La Vista Hakodate Bay: A popular hotel with hot spring facilities.
- Hakodate Kokusai Hotel: Convenient access to tourist spots.
- Ryokan in Yunokawa Onsen: Relax while enjoying hot springs.
Wi‑Fi
- Free Wi‑Fi is available at major tourist spots in Hakodate.
- Wi‑Fi spots are also available at JR Hakodate Station, Hakodate Airport, and major streetcar stations.
Language Support
- The Hakodate Tourist Information Center provides brochures in English, Chinese, and Korean, and multilingual staff are available.
- Some hotels and restaurants also offer English support.
Summary & Frequently Asked Questions
The Hakodate Port Festival is an event where you can fully enjoy summer in Hokkaido, with abundant attractions such as fireworks, parades, food, and the Squid Dance.
Join the locals and heat up your summer nights!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are the events held in the rain?
A: Events will go ahead in light rain, but some events may be canceled in severe weather.
Q: Can tourists participate in the Squid Dance?
A: Yes — you can join spontaneously without prior registration.
Q: What sightseeing spots are recommended during the festival?
A: Recommended spots include Goryokaku Park, the Mount Hakodate night view, and the Red Brick Warehouses.
Enjoy a hot Hokkaido summer at the Hakodate Port Festival!
