Hanami in the southern area of Hokkaido is well known for spots such as Goryokaku and Matsumae Castle.
The city of Hokuto, adjacent to Hakodate, also holds a light-up event called the "Hokuto Sakura Circuit" when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom.
I did not know about this event until I found a flyer at Hakodate Airport, but I went and found it to be quite nice, so I will note the parking lot and distance for those who visit next year or later.
The Hokuto Cherry Blossom Circuit consists of the following four locations.
- Hokiji Temple (Mukono, Hokuto City)
- Ruins of Togirichi camp of the Matsumae domain
- Cherry blossom trees along the Ono River
- Kiyokawa Senbonzakura (1,000 cherry trees)
Locations 1 through 3 are lit up during Golden Week.
Note that HoKiji Temple and the rows of cherry trees along the Ono River are in the same area, but the ruins of the Togirichi campsite of the Matsumae domain are about 20 minutes away by car.
From Hakodate city, access is by rental car, which takes about 40 minutes one way.
We visited Hokiji temple and the cherry blossom trees along the Ono River.
The parking lot is not easy to find and is not listed in the tourist information, but you can park at the Hokuto City Health Center Seseragi Onsen (4-3-20 Honmachi, Hokuto City).
Hokiji temple
It is the largest weeping cherry tree in Hokkaido and is 300 years old.
Cherry trees along the Ono River
The path between the park and the bank is lined with cherry blossom trees.
Even though it is Golden Week, it is chilly when the sun goes down, so you will need warm clothes.
Near the bank behind Seseragi Onsen
Seseragi Onsen is a hot spring facility in Hokuto City, and during this season, visitors can also view cherry blossoms in the open-air bath.
The bathing fee is 400 yen, but you will need to bring your own towel and soap.
Travelers to Hakodate often use up their time by sightseeing in Hakodate City and Matsumae.
However, the cherry blossom circuit is unexpectedly spectacular and worth including as an option.
