When visiting a country as beautiful and so popular with tourists such as Japan it is often difficult to find places that are not already swarming with visitors. Well, we’re happy to report that we came across one such place on our last visit to Japan.

Hakodate (函館) is Hokkaido's third-largest city, and is best known for the spectacular views from Mount Hakodate. There is more to this port city. Here are our top 5 recommendations plus 2 bonus things to do in one day in Hakodate.

A unique star-shaped fortress in Hakodate city on Hokkaido island is a must-visit place to witness over 1500 cherry blossom trees blooming during spring.

Hirosaki Park in Aomori prefecture is one of the most popular spots to view the cherry blossoms in Japan. “Hirosaki Sakura Matsuri ”, the cherry blossom festival, is held from late April to early May (around the golden week holidays in Japan) at Hirosaki Park every year.

When visiting a country as beautiful and so popular with tourists such as Japan it is often difficult to find places that are not already swarming with visitors. Well, we’re happy to report that we came across one such place on our last visit to Japan.