March to May is the spring season in Hokkaido. People in Hokkaido start to plan family trips, looking for sightseeing, places to visit with kids. Most importantly, Japanese blossoms are a must-watch in spring.
For local people, March is the graduation ceremony for students. Also, companies announce the HR bulletin of the year. That is to say, it’s good timing to make a plan for this year. Certainly, bears are about to wake up from hibernation in spring Hokkaido.
If local people see the wild vegetables growing on the roadside. It’s a sign to tell people that April is coming. Late April to May is the sakura cherry blossom season in Hokkaido.
Here is a list of attractions for family days out with the kids in spring Hakodate.
Things Before You Visit
According to the weather in Hokkaido is a bit different between regions, you may need to know the weather of the region you will go to. Also, have a looks at clothing tips in spring. It will help you to pack luggage.
Hokkaido Weather – Climate And Temperature
Hokkaido Spring Season Clothing Tips
Best Spots In Spring Hakodate
To make an emblazoned journey with kids, parents always spend a lot of energy planning. The attractions below are child-friendly. Especially the sakura cherry blossom at Goryokaku tower, No.1 in my heart.
Hakodate Seibu Chiku BAR-GAI
April
This is a Spanish-style gourmet event. You can purchase 5 tickets and enjoy food and drink at your favorite store from the participating stores at the foot of Mt. Hakodate (western area). Held twice a year in spring and autumn, tickets are sold in advance for one month.
Hakodate Seibu Chiku BAR-GAI – Infuses Early September With The Flavours of Spain
Sakura Cherry Blossom Viewing At Goryokaku Tower
Late April – Early May
A must-watch recommendation to everyone! Enjoy the famous pink cherry bloom view at the Japan green Michelin star panorama at Goryokaku Tower.
Goryokaku Tower – The Famous Spot To See The First Western Fortress In Japan
Cutest Ever Hot-Tubbing Japanese Snow Monkeys
1 December – Early May Golden Week
During the snow season, you can see Japanese snow monkeys taking baths in the hot spring. Recommend travel families visit to see how adorable they can be!
Japanese Snow Monkeys Bathing In The Hot Springs
Japanese Blossom And Hokkaido Museum At Hakodate Park
Late April – Early May
It’s another spot to enjoy cherry blooms views in Hakodate. There are cherry trees on its path and a children’s playground. Good for travel families to visit. Recommend you visit Hakodate Park before or after visiting the Hachiman Zaka slope. Hakodate Park is close to the Hachiman Zaka slope.
Hachiman Zaka Slope
All year
A place of pilgrimage regarded by the visitors and feel that their visits would not be completed without a trip there. The shimmering sea and iconic Ferry Memorial Ship Mashu Maru can be seen straight down on the end of Hachiman Zaka slope’s wide boulevard.
Hachiman Zaka – The Best And Most Famous Picturesque Slope In Japan
Goryokaku Festival – For People Interested In Japan Samurai
Third Saturday and Sunday in May
Over 1000 people dress up in combat uniforms during the civil war between samurai and the new government. You will see people dressed as the most famous samurai who died in the war – Hijikata Toshizo.
Hakodate Goryokaku Festival – Hokkaido Samurai Parade
The Goryokaku Festival official website – Japanese
Rose Pink Blooms Viewing At Esan
Esan Azalea Festival – Late May-early June
Azalea bloom season is from late May to early June. In the season, you will see all rose pink colors cover the volcano Mt. Esan. On Sunday of late May, there is an event to sell local specialties at Azalea Park. Good for travel families to visit.
Esan Azalea Festival – The Beautiful Azalea Blooms View
Mount Hakodate Observatory, Kanemori Red Brick Warehouses & Hakodate Asaichi
All year
Although, there are no festivals at Mt. Hakodate, Kanemori red brick warehouse, and Hakodate Asaichi. There are must-see tourist attractions that you won’t miss out on.
Mount Hakodate Observatory – The Spectacular Night View In Hokkaido
