【Love Live!】 Hakodate, Hokkaido
Introduction: Following the Footsteps of Aqours Members to the Exotic Hakodate
Episodes 8 “HAKODATE” and 9 “Awaken the power” of the television anime “Love Live! Sunshine!!” broadcast at the end of 2017 became episodes deeply etched in the hearts of many Love Live fans. These episodes, depicting the Aqours members visiting Hakodate, Hokkaido and growing through interaction with the rival group “Saint Snow,” are particularly important installments in the work.
Hakodate was already known as one of Japan’s leading tourist destinations, with the Goryokaku fortress remaining from the end of the Edo period, the exotic Bay Area, and beautiful night views from Hakodate Mountain. However, after the anime’s broadcast, it has become a new holy site for “Love Live fans,” attracting many fans from across the country. Even years after the broadcast, the sight of fans making pilgrimages to holy sites never ceases.
This article will introduce in detail all the spots featured in the Hakodate arc of “Love Live! Sunshine!!,” explaining thoroughly the information necessary for Hakodate holy site pilgrimage, including efficient pilgrimage routes, access methods, photography points, and local cuisine. The article is packed with practical information so that even first-time visitors to Hakodate can confidently make their holy site pilgrimage.
“Love Live! Sunshine!!” Work Introduction and Charm of the Hakodate Arc
“Love Live! Sunshine!!” Work Data
“Love Live! Sunshine!!” is a multimedia project developed as the second installment of the Love Live project. Set in Uchiura, a seaside town in Numazu City, Shizuoka Prefecture, the story depicts nine girls forming the school idol group “Aqours” and working hard to save Ura no Hoshi Girls’ Academy, which faces the threat of closure.
Work Data
- Broadcast Period: Season 1 July-September 2016, Season 2 October-December 2017
- Production: Sunrise
- Director: Kazuo Sakai
- Series Composition: Jūki Hanada
- Character Design: Yuhei Murota
- Music Production: Lantis
Hakodate Arc (Season 2 Episodes 8-9) Story
Episodes 8 and 9 of Season 2 are special episodes in which the Aqours members visit Hakodate, Hokkaido. Invited by the rival group Saint Snow’s sisters Ria and Seira, Aqours members participate in an event held in Hakodate.
The episodes depict the members sightseeing around the city of Hakodate, deepening their exchange with Saint Snow, and growing while inspiring each other. Particularly at the climax of Episode 9, “Awaken the power” is performed on Hachiman Slope, Hakodate’s iconic hill, moving many fans’ hearts.
The work features numerous real Hakodate tourist spots and gourmet restaurants, depicted with great care as the anime’s setting. This realistic depiction is a major factor driving fans to make holy site pilgrimages.
Access to Hokkaido and Hakodate
From Tokyo to Hakodate: Using the Hokkaido Shinkansen
When visiting Hakodate from the Tokyo area, the most convenient option is using the Hokkaido Shinkansen. Opened in March 2016, the Hokkaido Shinkansen connects Tokyo Station to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station in approximately 4 hours at maximum speed.
Tohoku and Hokkaido Shinkansen “Hayabusa”
- Tokyo Station to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station: approximately 4 hours
- Fare: Approximately 23,000 yen one-way (regular season) for ordinary reserved seats
- Service: Approximately 10 trains per day
From Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station to Hakodate Station, the JR Hakodate Main Line “Hakodatelier” takes approximately 15-20 minutes. The schedule is arranged for smooth connections with the Shinkansen, making transfers convenient.
Using an Airplane
When prioritizing speed or traveling from afar, airplane travel is also worth considering.
Access to Hakodate Airport
- From Haneda Airport: Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes, 10+ flights daily
- From Chubu Centrair International Airport: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, approximately 2 flights daily
- From Kansai International Airport: Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes, approximately 2 flights daily
From Hakodate Airport to Hakodate Station front, the airport shuttle bus “Hakodate Taisan Bus” takes approximately 20 minutes. The fare is 450 yen one-way, which is extremely reasonable, and compared to Shinkansen use, offers a good balance of time and cost.
In Episode 8 of the work, the Aqours members arrive at Hakodate Airport, and the story begins from this scene. The airport terminal building is also worth visiting as one of the holy sites.
Transportation Within the City
To visit holy sites throughout Hakodate, the following transportation methods are primarily available.
Streetcar (Tram)
Hakodate’s streetcar is the most convenient transportation method for tourists. Many major tourist spots and holy sites are within walking distance of streetcar stops.
- 1-day pass: 600 yen (streetcar only), 1,000 yen (streetcar and bus combined)
- Major stops: Hakodate Station Front, Goryokaku Park Front, Juji-gai, Suehiro-cho, etc.
Bus
For areas not served by streetcar, use Hakodate Bus. For access to the Hakodate Mountain observation deck, use the ropeway or mountain bus.
Rental Bicycles
On nice days, pilgrimage by rental bicycle is also recommended. Multiple rental bicycle services are available around Hakodate Station, including electric-assist bicycles.
Hakodate Holy Site Pilgrimage: Complete Guide to Major Spots
JR Hakodate Station and Hakodate Station Front Plaza
Appearance Scene: Beginning of Episode 8, the scene where Aqours members move from Hakodate Airport and arrive at Hakodate Station
Hakodate Station is an ideal starting point for holy site pilgrimage. The station building, renovated in 2003, is characterized by its modern glass-faced design, and its exterior is faithfully reproduced in the anime.
Highlights
- Station Front Plaza: Possible to take photos from the angle featured in the anime
- Inside the Station: Tourist information office where pilgrimage maps and other information can be obtained
- Station Building “Hakodate Station Front Building”: Well-stocked souvenir shops and restaurants
The “Hakodate Station Front” streetcar stop is located in front of Hakodate Station, and starting pilgrimage from here is most efficient. Additionally, many hotels are located around the station, making it a convenient base for accommodation.
Hakodate Arena
Appearance Scene: Episode 8, appears as the venue for an event where Saint Snow performs
Hakodate Arena is a comprehensive athletic facility in Hakodate City that opened in 2015. It can accommodate up to 5,000 people and is used for sports events and concerts.
Access
- Approximately 15 minutes by car from Hakodate Station
- Hakodate Bus heading to “Yunokawa Onsen” and get off at “Arena Mae”
The work features only the exterior, but it is an important setting for the story with Saint Snow. Usually, only the exterior can be viewed, but it is possible to see the interior when events are held.
Goryokaku Tower and Goryokaku Park
Appearance Scene: Episode 8, the scene where Aqours members enjoy sightseeing in Hakodate
Goryokaku Tower is one of Hakodate’s representative tourist attractions. From the observation deck at 107 meters high, you can see the star-shaped Goryokaku at a glance. In the anime, the scene of members viewing the scenery from the observation deck is depicted impressively.
Facility Information
- Operating Hours: 9:00–18:00 (until 19:00 April 21–October 20)
- Admission: 1,000 yen for adults, 750 yen for junior and senior high school students, 500 yen for elementary school students
- Access: Get off at “Goryokaku Park Front” streetcar stop, approximately 15 minutes walk
Photography Points
- 2nd Floor of Observation Deck: Can photograph the star-shaped Goryokaku at an angle similar to the anime
- Tower Exterior: The angle viewed from the Goryokaku Park side is closest to the anime
- Inside Goryokaku Park: Especially beautiful during cherry blossom season (late April–early May)
Goryokaku is also a historically significant structure from the end of the Edo period and was the site of the Boshin War. Holy site pilgrimage can be combined with historical sightseeing.
Kanomorikoji Red Brick Warehouse
Appearance Scene: Episode 8, the scene where Aqours members stroll through Hakodate’s bay area
Kanomorikoji Red Brick Warehouse is a shopping and gourmet area that makes use of historic buildings constructed during the Meiji era. The retro-styled warehouse complex is a representative tourist spot of Hakodate’s bay area.
Facility Information
- Operating Hours: Varies by store (generally 9:30–19:00)
- Access: Get off at “Juji-gai” streetcar stop, approximately 5 minutes walk
- Admission: Free (separate charges for purchases at each store)
Highlights
- Appearance of Red Brick Warehouses: Beautifully lit up at dusk
- BAY Hakodate: Well-stocked with Hokkaido specialty products and souvenirs
- Kanomori Foreign Goods Museum: Antique shop where you can feel Hakodate’s history
- Hakodate Beer Hall: Enjoy local beer and jingisukan
In the anime, members walk in front of the warehouse complex. The actual scenery and the anime depiction are very similar, making this a highly satisfying holy site pilgrimage spot.
Lucky Pierrot Bay Area Main Store
Appearance Scene: Episode 8, the scene where Aqours members eat Hakodate specialties
“Lucky Pierrot” is a locally-focused hamburger chain operating only in Hakodate City. It became famous nationwide for its unique store design and voluminous burgers.
Store Information
- Operating Hours: 10:00–22:30 (until 24:30 Friday, Saturday, and days before holidays)
- Access: Get off at “Juji-gai” streetcar stop, approximately 3 minutes walk
- Closed: Open year-round
Recommended Menu
- Chinese Chicken Burger: Lucky Pierrot’s signature menu item
- Futoccho Burger: The menu ordered by Ruby in the anime
- Lucky Egg Burger: Packed with soft-boiled egg
- Lucky Curry: Popular menu item with soup curry style
The work features a scene where Ruby and Hanamaru order “Futoccho Burger.” Actually ordering the same menu and experiencing the world of the work is the essence of holy site pilgrimage. The store is always crowded, but the Bay Area main store is relatively spacious, so wait times are shorter than other locations.
Hasegawa Store (Hasesuto)
Appearance Scene: Episode 8, Hakodate specialty “yakitori bento” is featured
Hasegawa Store is a convenience store chain centered in Hakodate, and its signature “yakitori bento” is known as soul food of Hakodate citizens. The anime features a scene where members eat yakitori bento.
Yakitori Bento Characteristics
- Despite the name “yakitori,” it actually consists of grilled pork skewers
- Choice between sauce and salt flavoring
- Grilled to order, so you get freshly cooked items
- Price: Around 600 yen
Major Stores
- Bay Area Store: 5 minutes walk from “Juji-gai” streetcar
- Hakodate Station Front Store: 3 minutes walk from Hakodate Station
- Goryokaku Park Front Store: 1 minute walk from “Goryokaku Park Front” streetcar
Yakitori bento is easy Hakodate gourmet food to enjoy between holy site visits. Perfect for lunch in a park or while waiting for a streetcar.
Nishi Hatoba
Appearance Scene: Episode 8, the scene where Aqours members stroll by Hakodate’s seaside
Nishi Hatoba is a complex commercial facility located next to Kanomorikoji Red Brick Warehouse. With its seafront location, it offers a panoramic view of Hakodate Harbor.
Facility Information
- Operating Hours: Varies by store (generally 10:00–19:00)
- Access: Get off at “Juji-gai” streetcar stop, approximately 5 minutes walk
Highlights
- Seafront Deck: View Hakodate Harbor at the same angle as in the anime
- Souvenir Shops: Abundant Hakodate specialty products
- Restaurants: Enjoy seafood cuisine
In the anime, members converse on the seaside deck. On nice days, beautiful photos can be taken with Hakodate Mountain and cityscape in the background.
Hachiman Slope
Appearance Scene: Episode 9, the live scene of “Awaken the power”
Hachiman Slope is the most important holy site that punctuates the climax of the “Love Live! Sunshine!!” Hakodate arc. It is a beautiful slope stretching straight toward Hakodate Mountain and one of Hakodate’s representative tourist attractions.
Slope Characteristics
- Total Length: Approximately 270 meters
- Grade: Approximately 12 degrees
- Width: Approximately 20 meters
- Access: Get off at “Suehiro-cho” streetcar stop, approximately 3 minutes walk
Photography Points
- From Slope Bottom: View up the slope with Hakodate Mountain in the background
- Slope Midpoint: Same position as the anime’s live scene
- From Slope Top: Panoramic view of Hakodate Harbor and cityscape
In Episode 9, Aqours and Saint Snow perform “Awaken the power” on this Hachiman Slope. Hachiman Slope at dusk is especially beautiful and allows you to feel the atmosphere of the anime the most. However, it is a popular tourist spot with many visitors, so consideration for surroundings is necessary when photographing.
Hakodate Mountain Observation Deck
Appearance Scene: Episode 9, the scene where members view Hakodate’s night scenery
The night view from Hakodate Mountain Observation Deck is known as “One Million Dollar Night View” and is counted among Japan’s three best night views. The anime also features an impressive scene of members viewing the night scenery.
Access Methods
- Hakodate Mountain Ropeway: Approximately 3 minutes from the base station, a 10-minute walk from “Juji-gai” streetcar stop
- Operating Hours: 10:00–22:00 (varies by season)
- Fare: Round trip 1,500 yen, one-way 1,000 yen
Night View Viewing Tips
- Best Time: 30 minutes to 1 hour after sunset (magic hour)
- Peak Seasons: Summer (July–August) and autumn foliage season (October) are especially crowded
- Clothing: The mountain summit is 5-10 degrees cooler than the city, so a jacket is essential
Both the indoor observation room on the 2nd floor and the outdoor observation deck on the rooftop offer night view enjoyment. To photograph at the same angle as the anime, the center slightly right position on the outdoor observation deck is recommended.
Other Holy Sites
Suginami-cho Tram Stop
Appears as a streetcar stop in Episode 8. A retro-styled stop where you can experience Hakodate’s tram culture.
Hakodate International Hotel
The exterior appears in the work and is considered the model for the hotel where Aqours members stayed.
Motomachi Area
An area where Hakodate’s historic buildings are concentrated. Around Hachiman Slope, there are many sights to see, including the former Hakodate Ward Public Hall and Hakodate Orthodox Church.
Efficient Holy Site Pilgrimage Model Courses
One-Day Course Visiting Major Holy Sites
Hakodate’s holy sites are relatively compact, making it possible to efficiently visit major spots in one day.
Morning (9:00–12:00)
- Start at JR Hakodate Station (9:00)
- Move by streetcar to “Goryokaku Park Front” (approximately 15 minutes)
- Visit Goryokaku Tower (1 hour)
- Move by streetcar to “Juji-gai” (approximately 20 minutes)
Lunch (12:00–13:00)
- Lunch at Lucky Pierrot Bay Area Main Store
Afternoon (13:00–17:00)
- Explore Kanomorikoji Red Brick Warehouse (30 minutes)
- Visit Nishi Hatoba (30 minutes)
- Walk to Hachiman Slope (10 minutes)
- Photography at Hachiman Slope (30 minutes)
- Explore Motomachi area (1 hour)
Evening (17:00–20:00)
- Take Hakodate Mountain Ropeway to summit (around 18:00)
- View night scenery (1 hour)
- After descending, dinner near Hakodate Station
Two-Day Course for Relaxed Pilgrimage
With more time available, spending two days visiting holy sites at a leisurely pace while also enjoying Hakodate sightseeing is recommended.
Day 1: Focus on Bay Area and Motomachi Area
- Morning: Hakodate Station, Kanomorikoji Red Brick Warehouse, Nishi Hatoba
- Lunch: Lucky Pierrot or seafood cuisine
- Afternoon: Hachiman Slope, historic buildings in Motomachi area
- Evening: Enjoy night views from Hakodate Mountain
Day 2: Focus on Goryokaku Area and Others
- Morning: Goryokaku Tower, Goryokaku Park stroll
- Lunch: Yakitori bento from Hasegawa Store
- Afternoon: Hakodate Morning Market, Hakodate Arena (exterior)
- Evening: Souvenir shopping near Hakodate Station
Holy Site Pilgrimage Notes and Etiquette
Photography Etiquette
When making holy site pilgrimages, observe the following etiquette.
Photography in Public Spaces
- Be considerate not to obstruct foot traffic
- Avoid occupying the same spot for long periods
- Judge tripod use based on surrounding conditions
- Refrain from loud conversations or shouting
Photography at Stores
- Always obtain permission before photographing inside stores
- Be mindful not to disturb other customers
- Avoid entering solely for photography purposes; purchase products
Seasonal Clothing and Items
Spring (April–May)
- Temperature: 5–15 degrees Celsius
- Clothing: Thin down jacket, sweater
- Highlights: Cherry blossoms at Goryokaku (late April–early May)
Summer (June–August)
- Temperature: 15–25 degrees Celsius
- Clothing: Long-sleeved shirt, thin jacket (for mornings and evenings)
- Note: Not as hot as Honshu, but strong sun exposure
Autumn (September–November)
- Temperature: 5–18 degrees Celsius
- Clothing: Thick jacket, sweater
- Highlights: Autumn foliage (mid-October–early November)
Winter (December–March)
- Temperature: -5–5 degrees Celsius
- Clothing: Heavy coat, gloves, scarf, winter boots
- Note: Caution with icy roads; non-slip footwear essential
Common Items to Bring
- Smartphone/Camera (backup battery recommended)
- Holy Site Pilgrimage Map (available at tourist information centers)
- Mobile battery
- Beverage
- 1-day streetcar/bus pass
Hakodate Cuisine and Accommodation Information
Hakodate Specialty Foods
Enjoy Hakodate gourmet food while making holy site pilgrimages.
Seafood Cuisine
Hakodate Morning Market offers fresh seafood bowls and squid sashimi. The “live squid” is a specialty unique to Hakodate.
Salt Ramen
Hakodate is the birthplace of salt ramen. It is characterized by a light, transparent broth.
- Recommended Stores: “Ajisai,” “Jiokuteken,” “Ryuho”
Squid Noodles
Fresh squid sliced thinly. Available at Hakodate Morning Market and seafood restaurants.
Jingisukan
A Hokkaido specialty mutton dish. Enjoyed at “Hakodate Beer Hall” inside Kanomorikoji Red Brick Warehouse and elsewhere.
Recommended Accommodation Areas
Around Hakodate Station
- Good transportation access, ideal as the pilgrimage starting point
- Many business hotels at reasonable prices
- Recommended: “Rabista Hakodate Bay,” “Hotel WBF Grande Hakodate”
Bay Area
- Close to Kanomorikoji Red Brick Warehouse and Nishi Hatoba
- Many hotels with good atmosphere
- Recommended: “Hakodate International Hotel,” “Hotel Chocolat Hakodate”
Yunokawa Onsen
- Close to Hakodate Airport, with hot spring facilities
- Approximately 30 minutes by streetcar to Bay Area
- Recommended: “Yunokawa Prince Hotel Nagisa Tei,” “Heiseiakn Kaiyotei”
Further Enjoying Holy Site Pilgrimage
Official Goods and Collaboration Products
Collaboration products with “Love Live! Sunshine!!” are sometimes sold in Hakodate. Limited goods may appear especially during commemorative events.
Major Sales Locations
- Souvenir shops inside Kanomorikoji Red Brick Warehouse
- Souvenir stores inside Hakodate Station
- Animate Hakodate Store (Goryokaku Area)
Information Gathering via SNS
Searching hashtags such as “#LoveLiveSunshineHakodate” or “#HakodateHolySitePilgrimage” on Twitter and Instagram reveals the latest holy site information and pilgrimage reports from other fans.
Hakodate City Tourism Information
Hakodate City Tourism Information Center
- Location: Inside JR Hakodate Station
- Operating Hours: 9:00–19:00 (April–October), 9:00–17:00 (November–March)
- Services: Distribute tourism maps, accommodation guidance, luggage storage
Hakobura (Hakodate City Official Tourism Information Website)
Rich with information on Hakodate tourist spots, event information, and gourmet offerings. Useful reference when planning your holy site pilgrimage.
Conclusion: Special Experiences Gained from Hakodate Holy Site Pilgrimage
“Love Live! Sunshine!!” Hakodate holy site pilgrimage offers value beyond simply visiting an anime setting. Because the work is set in Hakodate, a beautiful tourist city, it provides a luxurious experience of enjoying holy site pilgrimage and sightseeing simultaneously.
When climbing the slope while recalling the “Awaken the power” scene at Hachiman Slope, when biting into a Futoccho Burger at Lucky Pierrot, when viewing the one-million-dollar night view from Hakodate Mountain, you will surely experience the same emotion as the Aqours members.
Hakodate is a charming city where history, culture, cuisine, and natural scenery all come together. Through holy site pilgrimage, not only can you deepen your love for the work, but you can also discover the appeal of Hakodate as a city.
Please use this article as a reference to create your own Hakodate holy site pilgrimage plan and embark on this special journey tracing Aqours’ footsteps. It will surely become an unforgettable memory.
