Hakodate’s charm is undeniable, and a private full-day guided tour provides an immersive way to discover it. This personalized experience takes visitors on a journey through the city’s iconic sites, blending convenience and comfort. From the impressive Goryokaku Tower to the historic Magistrates Office, the tour offers a comprehensive glimpse into Japan’s rich heritage. With scenic transportation, a delicious lunch, and a knowledgeable guide, this tour promises an unforgettable day for groups of up to seven. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, this tour might just be the key to unlocking Hakodate’s true essence.

Key Points

  • A private full-day guided tour in Hakodate, Japan, covering key attractions like Goryokaku Tower and Magistrates Office of Goryokaku.
  • The tour includes admission fees, transportation, and lunch, and costs $357.94 per group (up to 7 participants).
  • The tour starts and ends at Hakodate Station, with a meeting point where the guide holds a sign with the group name.
  • The tour offers panoramic views from Goryokaku Tower and insight into Japan’s feudal past at the Magistrates Office of Goryokaku.
  • The tour is not wheelchair accessible, and travelers with back problems may find it challenging.

Tour Overview

The private full-day guided tour in Hakodate, Japan offers English-speaking guidance to explore the city’s key attractions.

At a total cost of $357.94 per group (up to 7 participants), the tour provides admission to the Goryokaku Tower and Magistrates Office of Goryokaku, as well as transportation via bus, city tram, and ropeway.

Lunch is included, and the tour begins and ends at Hakodate Station.

With 2 reviews at a 5.0 rating, this private tour promises a comprehensive exploration of Hakodate’s highlights, catering to the needs of small groups.

Inclusions

The private guided tour in Hakodate includes admission fees to several key landmarks.

Visitors will gain entry to the Goryokaku Tower, where they can take in panoramic views of the star-shaped Goryokaku Fort. They’ll also visit the Magistrates Office of Goryokaku, a historical government building.

Beyond the admission fees, the tour covers all necessary transportation, including bus, city tram, and ropeway fares. A delicious lunch is also provided as part of the package.

With these inclusions, the tour offers a comprehensive experience to explore Hakodate’s top attractions with the guidance of a knowledgeable local.

Meeting and Pickup

Hakodate Station, located at 12 Wakamatsucho, Hakodate, Hokkaido 040-0063, serves as the meeting point for this private guided tour. The guide will hold a sign with the group’s name, ensuring a smooth and seamless start to the tour. Once gathered, the group will embark on their exploration of Hakodate’s top sights.

Meeting Point Pickup End of Tour
Hakodate Station Guide holds sign with group name Back at meeting point
12 Wakamatsucho, Hakodate, Hokkaido 040-0063 Tour starts at 9:00 am No transportation provided after tour
Japan Confirmation within 48 hours, subject to availability Free cancellation up to 24 hours before

Schedule and Availability

The tour starts at 9:00 am, allowing participants to make the most of the day.

Confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability. Guests can reserve now and pay later. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

The tour ends back at the meeting point at Hakodate Station. This private tour ensures only your group will participate.

The schedule and availability provide flexibility, making it convenient for travelers to plan their Hakodate exploration with ease.

Goryokaku Tower

Goryokaku Tower is the first stop on the guided tour, offering visitors a panoramic view of the unique star-shaped Goryokaku Fort below.

From the observation deck, guests can:

  • Admire the intricate geometric design of the 19th-century fort, a prime example of Western-style military architecture.
  • Spot landmarks like the Magistrates Office and the Hakodate Bay in the distance.
  • Take in the stunning natural scenery, including the Tsugaru Strait and the mountains that frame the city.

The admission fee to Goryokaku Tower is 1,000 JPY per person, with the guide accessing the attraction for free.

Magistrates Office of Goryokaku

After exploring the impressive Goryokaku Tower, the tour continues to the nearby Magistrates Office of Goryokaku.

This historic building provides a glimpse into Japan’s feudal past. Visitors can walk through the well-preserved structure and learn about the legal system and administration of the Edo period.

The admission fee is 500 JPY per person, which the guide will cover.

This compact yet informative stop offers a chance to deepen one’s understanding of Hakodate’s rich history before moving on to the next destination on the itinerary.

Ropeway

Next, the tour takes guests aboard the Hakodate Ropeway, a scenic cable car that ascends Mount Hakodate.

The ropeway offers breathtaking views of the city and Tsugaru Strait below.

Riders enjoy:

  • Panoramic vistas of Hakodate’s picturesque harbor and red-brick buildings
  • A 360-degree observation deck at the top, providing a stunning outlook over the entire city
  • The option to hike down the mountain trails after reaching the summit, if desired

This ropeway ride is a highlight of the tour, giving visitors a unique perspective of Hakodate from high above.

Additional Information

Although the private guided tour in Hakodate isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s conveniently located near public transportation.

Infants must sit on laps during the tour. Travelers with back problems may find the tour challenging, but most others can participate.

The tour is a private experience, so only your group will be involved. Booking confirmation is received within 48 hours, subject to availability.

There’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the start. Customers also have the option to reserve now and pay later.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for People With Mobility Issues?

The tour may not be suitable for those with mobility issues, as it’s not wheelchair accessible and involves walking and using public transportation. Travelers with back problems are also not recommended to participate.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Match Our Interests?

The tour can be customized to match the group’s interests. The private nature of the tour allows for flexibility in the itinerary, so the guide can tailor the experience to the participants’ preferences and needs.

What Language(S) Does the Guide Speak Besides English?

The tour guide speaks only English besides the local Japanese language. Additional languages are not specified, so the guide is likely not fluent in any other languages besides English and Japanese.

Is There Any Dress Code or Special Attire Required for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any specific dress code or attire requirements. Participants can wear comfortable, casual clothing suitable for walking and visiting outdoor sights. No formal wear or special attire is needed for this private guided tour.

Can We Make Stops Along the Way to Explore on Our Own?

The tour allows flexibility for participants to explore on their own during the day. While the guide will lead the main activities, there may be opportunities to make stops along the way for individual exploration, subject to the group’s preferences and time constraints.

The Sum Up

Enjoy the captivating history and stunning landscapes of Hakodate with this private full-day guided tour. Enjoy convenient transportation, admission fees, and a delicious lunch as you explore iconic sites like Goryokaku Tower and the Magistrates Office. This personalized experience offers a unique opportunity to discover Japan’s rich heritage and breathtaking vistas, ensuring a memorable and hassle-free journey.