Episodes 8 and 9, “HAKODATE” and “Awaken the power,” of the TV anime “Love Live! Sunshine!!” Season 2, which aired at the end of 2017, became deeply etched in the hearts of many Love Live fans. These episodes, which depict the growth of the Aqours members as they visit Hakodate in Hokkaido and deepen their exchange with the rival group “Saint Snow,” are particularly important episodes in the work.
Hakodate was already known as one of Japan’s leading tourist destinations, with the Goryokaku fortress from the late Edo period, a bay area brimming with exotic charm, and Hakodate Mountain famous for its beautiful night views. However, after the anime’s broadcast, it became a new “sacred site” for “Love Live fans,” attracting many fans from across the country. Even years after the broadcast, the sight of fans making pilgrimages to the sacred sites never ceases.
This article provides detailed introductions to all the spots that appeared in the Hakodate arc of “Love Live! Sunshine!!,” along with thorough explanations of efficient pilgrimage routes, access methods, photography points, and even local cuisine—everything necessary for a Hakodate sacred site pilgrimage. It is packed with practical information so that even those visiting Hakodate for the first time can safely complete their sacred site pilgrimage.
“Love Live! Sunshine!!” Work Introduction and the Appeal of the Hakodate Arc
“Love Live! Sunshine!!” Work Data
“Love Live! Sunshine!!” is a multimedia project that was developed as the second installment of the Love Live project. Set in Uchura, a seaside town in Numazu, Shizuoka Prefecture, the story depicts nine girls forming a school idol group called “Aqours” and striving to save Ura no Hoshi Girls’ Academy, which faces the crisis 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
The Hakodate Arc (Season 2, Episodes 8 and 9) Story
Episodes 8 and 9 of Season 2 are a special episode in which the members of Aqours visit Hakodate in Hokkaido. Invited by the rival group “Saint Snow”—the sisters Ria and Seora—Aqours members participate in an event held in Hakodate.
The episodes depict the Aqours members deepening their exchange with Saint Snow while sightseeing in the city of Hakodate and growing through mutual inspiration. Particularly impressive is the climax of episode 9, where “Awaken the power” is performed on “Hachiman-zaka,” an iconic slope in Hakodate, moving many fans’ hearts.
The work features numerous real tourist spots and gourmet restaurants in Hakodate, depicting them with great care as the stage for the anime. This realistic depiction has become a major factor driving fans to make sacred site pilgrimages.
Access Methods to Hokkaido and Hakodate
From Tokyo to Hakodate: Using the Hokkaido Shinkansen
For those visiting Hakodate from the Tokyo area, the most convenient option is using the Hokkaido Shinkansen. The Hokkaido Shinkansen, which opened in March 2016, connects Tokyo Station to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station in approximately 4 hours at maximum speed.
Tohoku/Hokkaido Shinkansen “Hayabusa”
- Tokyo Station to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station: Approximately 4 hours
- Fare: Regular reserved seat approximately 23,000 yen one-way (standard season)
- Frequency: Approximately 10 trains per day
From Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station to Hakodate Station, it takes approximately 15-20 minutes on the “Hakodate Liner” of the JR Hakodate Main Line. The timetable is designed to allow smooth connections with the Shinkansen, making transfers convenient.
Using an Airplane
For those prioritizing time or traveling from far away, using an airplane is also worth considering.
Access to Hakodate Airport
- From Haneda Airport: Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes, 10+ flights per day
- From Chubu Centrair Airport: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, approximately 2 flights per day
- From Kansai International Airport: Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes, approximately 2 flights per day
From Hakodate Airport to Hakodate Station, the airport shuttle bus “Hakodate Teisan Bus” takes approximately 20 minutes. The fare is very reasonable at 450 yen per one-way trip, offering a good balance of time and cost compared to taking the Shinkansen.
In episode 8, the story begins with a scene where the Aqours members arrive at Hakodate Airport. The airport terminal building is also a sacred site worth visiting.
Transportation within the City
To navigate the sacred sites throughout Hakodate, the following transportation options are primarily available.
City Tram (Streetcar)
The Hakodate tram is the most convenient means of transportation for tourists. Many of the main tourist spots and sacred sites are within walking distance of tram stations.
- 1-day pass: 600 yen (tram only), 1,000 yen (tram and bus combined)
- Major stops: Hakodate Station-mae, Goryokaku Koen-mae, Juujigai, Suehiro-cho, etc.
Bus
For areas not served by the tram, use Hakodate Bus. For access to Hakodate Mountain Observation Deck, use the ropeway or a mountain hiking bus.
Rental Bicycles
On fine days, a bicycle pilgrimage of sacred sites is also recommended. There are multiple rental bicycle services around Hakodate Station, and electric-assist bicycles are also available.
Hakodate Sacred Site Pilgrimage: Complete Guide to Major Spots
JR Hakodate Station and Hakodate Station Plaza
Appearance Scene: Early in episode 8, when the Aqours members arrive at Hakodate Station after traveling from Hakodate Airport
Hakodate Station is an ideal starting point for a sacred site pilgrimage. The station building, which was renovated in 2003, features a modern glass design, and its exterior is faithfully recreated in the anime.
Highlights
- Station plaza: Photos can be taken from the same angle as shown in the anime
- Station interior: Tourist information office where you can obtain sacred site pilgrimage maps and other information
- Station building “Hakodate Station-mae Building”: Well-stocked gift shops and restaurants
The “Hakodate Station-mae” tram stop is located in front of Hakodate Station, making it efficient to start your sacred site pilgrimage from here. Additionally, there are many hotels around the station, making it a convenient location for lodging.
Hakodate Arena
Appearance Scene: Episode 8, appears as the venue for an event featuring Saint Snow
Hakodate Arena is a comprehensive gym facility in Hakodate 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
- Take Hakodate Bus heading to “Yugawa Onsen” and get off at “Arena-mae”
The work shows only the exterior, but it is an important stage in the story with Saint Snow. Generally, visits are limited to viewing the exterior, but it is possible to see the interior when events are held.
Goryokaku Tower and Goryokaku Park
Appearance Scene: Episode 8, scene where Aqours members enjoy sightseeing in Hakodate
Goryokaku Tower is one of Hakodate’s representative tourist spots. From the observation deck at 107 meters high, you can get a panoramic view of the star-shaped Goryokaku. In the anime, the scene of members gazing at the view from the observation deck is depicted impressively.
Facility Information
- Hours: 9:00–18:00 (until 19:00 April 21–October 20)
- Admission: Adults 1,000 yen, junior and senior high school students 750 yen, elementary school students 500 yen
- Access: Approximately 15 minutes on foot from “Goryokaku Koen-mae” tram stop
Photography Points
- 2nd floor of observation deck: You can photograph the star-shaped Goryokaku from the same angle as in the anime
- Tower exterior: The angle from the Goryokaku Park side is close to the anime
- Inside Goryokaku Park: Particularly beautiful during cherry blossom season (late April–early May)
Goryokaku is also a historically significant structure from the late Edo period and the stage of the Boshin War. Along with the sacred site pilgrimage, you can also enjoy historical sightseeing.
Kanomorі Red Brick Warehouse
Appearance Scene: Episode 8, scene where Aqours members stroll through Hakodate’s bay area
Kanomorі Red Brick Warehouse is a shopping and dining area that utilizes historically significant structures built in the Meiji era. The retro warehouses are a representative tourist spot in Hakodate’s bay area.
Facility Information
- Hours: Vary by store (generally 9:30–19:00)
- Access: Approximately 5 minutes on foot from “Juujigai” tram stop
- Admission: Free (purchases at individual stores are separate)
Highlights
- Red brick warehouse exterior: The lighting at dusk is beautiful
- BAY Hakodate: Well-stocked with Hokkaido specialties and souvenirs
- Kanomorі Yōhin-kan: A general store where you can feel Hakodate’s history
- Hakodate Beer Hall: Enjoy local beer and genghis khan (mutton barbecue)
In the anime, a scene shows members walking in front of the warehouse group. The actual scenery is very close to the anime’s depiction, making this a highly satisfying pilgrimage spot.
Lucky Pierrot Bay Area Main Shop
Appearance Scene: Episode 8, scene where Aqours members eat Hakodate specialties
“Lucky Pierrot” is a locally rooted hamburger chain operating only in Hakodate. It has become nationally famous for its distinctive store design and voluminous hamburgers.
Store Information
- Hours: 10:00–22:30 (until 24:30 Friday, Saturday, and the day before holidays)
- Access: Approximately 3 minutes on foot from “Juujigai” tram stop
- Closed: None
Recommended Menu
- Chinese Chicken Burger: Lucky Pierrot’s signature menu item
- Futoccho Burger: The menu ordered by Ruby in the anime
- Lucky Egg Burger: Loaded with soft-boiled eggs
- Lucky Curry: A popular menu featuring soup curry style
In the work, Ruby and Hanamaru order the “Futoccho Burger.” The appeal of a sacred site pilgrimage is being able to order the same menu and experience the world of the work. The interior is always crowded, but the Bay Area main shop is relatively large, so wait times are shorter than at other locations.
Hasegawa Store (Hasest)
Appearance Scene: Episode 8, where Hakodate’s specialty “yakitori bento” appears
Hasegawa Store is a convenience store chain centered in Hakodate, and its signature “yakitori bento” is known as a comfort food of Hakodate citizens. In the anime, a scene shows members eating yakitori bento.
Characteristics of Yakitori Bento
- Despite the name “yakitori,” it’s actually grilled pork skewers
- Choose between sauce and salt
- Made to order after cooking, so you get it fresh
- Price: Around 600 yen
Major Stores
- Bay Area store: 5 minutes on foot from “Juujigai” tram stop
- Hakodate Station-mae store: 3 minutes on foot from Hakodate Station
- Goryokaku Koen-mae store: 1 minute on foot from “Goryokaku Koen-mae” tram stop
Yakitori bento is Hakodate fare that can be easily enjoyed between pilgrimage spots. It’s perfect for waiting for a tram or having lunch in a park.
Nishi Hatodome
Appearance Scene: Episode 8, scene where Aqours members stroll along Hakodate’s waterfront
Nishi Hatodome is a mixed-use commercial facility located next to Kanomorī Red Brick Warehouse. With its seaside location, it offers a full view of Hakodate Port.
Facility Information
- Hours: Vary by store (generally 10:00–19:00)
- Access: Approximately 5 minutes on foot from “Juujigai” tram stop
Highlights
- Seaside deck: View Hakodate Port from the same angle as in the anime
- Gift shops: Abundant Hakodate specialties
- Restaurants: Enjoy seafood dishes
In the anime, members have a conversation on the seaside deck. On fine days, beautiful photos can be taken with Hakodate Mountain and the seascape in the background.
Hachiman-zaka
Appearance Scene: Episode 9, “Awaken the power” live scene
Hachiman-zaka is the most important sacred site that concludes the Hakodate arc of “Love Live! Sunshine!!”. It’s a beautiful straight slope leading toward Hakodate Mountain and one of Hakodate’s representative tourist spots.
Characteristics of the Slope
- Length: Approximately 270 meters
- Gradient: Approximately 12 degrees
- Width: Approximately 20 meters
- Access: Approximately 3 minutes on foot from “Suehiro-cho” tram stop
Photography Points
- From the bottom of the slope: Looking up at the slope with Hakodate Mountain in the background
- Middle of the slope: Same position as the anime’s live scene
- From the top of the slope: View of Hakodate Port and cityscape
In episode 9, Aqours and Saint Snow perform “Awaken the power” on this Hachiman-zaka. Hachiman-zaka at dusk is particularly beautiful and is the time when you can most feel the anime’s atmosphere. However, as a popular tourist spot with many visitors, consideration for surrounding people is necessary when photographing.
Hakodate Mountain Observation Deck
Appearance Scene: Episode 9, scene where members admire Hakodate’s night view
The night view from Hakodate Mountain Observation Deck is known as “one million dollar night view” and is counted as one of Japan’s three major night views. In the anime, the scene of members gazing at the night view is depicted impressively.
Access Methods
- Hakodate Mountain Ropeway: Approximately 3 minutes from the mountain base station, which is 10 minutes on foot from “Juujigai” tram stop
- Operating hours: 10:00–22:00 (varies by season)
- Fare: Round trip 1,500 yen, one-way 1,000 yen
Night View Viewing Points
- Best time: 30 minutes to 1 hour after sunset (magic hour)
- Peak seasons: Particularly crowded in summer (July–August) and autumn foliage season (October)
- Clothing: Since it’s 5-10 degrees cooler on the mountain than in the city, a jacket is essential
Both an indoor observation room on the 2nd floor and an outdoor observation deck on the roof allow you to enjoy the night view. To photograph the same angle as the anime, the center-right position of the outdoor observation deck is recommended.
Other Sacred Sites
Suginami-cho Tram Stop
Appears in episode 8 as a tram stop. The retro atmosphere allows you to feel Hakodate’s tram culture.
Hakodate International Hotel
Said to be the model for the hotel where Aqours members stay. Its exterior appears in the work.
Motomachi Area
An area where Hakodate’s historic buildings gather. Around Hachiman-zaka, there are many attractions such as the Former Hakodate Ward Public Hall and Hakodate Russian Orthodox Church.
Efficient Sacred Site Pilgrimage Model Courses
Course to Tour Major Sacred Sites in One Day
Hakodate’s sacred sites are relatively compact, so you can efficiently tour the main spots in one day.
Morning (9:00–12:00)
- Start at JR Hakodate Station (9:00)
- Travel by tram to “Goryokaku Koen-mae” (approximately 15 minutes)
- Visit Goryokaku Tower (1 hour)
- Travel by tram to “Juujigai” (approximately 20 minutes)
Lunch (12:00–13:00)
- Lunch at Lucky Pierrot Bay Area Main Shop
Afternoon (13:00–17:00)
- Stroll through Kanomorі Red Brick Warehouse (30 minutes)
- Visit Nishi Hatodome (30 minutes)
- Walk to Hachiman-zaka (10 minutes)
- Photography at Hachiman-zaka (30 minutes)
- Stroll through the Motomachi area (1 hour)
Evening to Night (17:00–20:00)
- Take Hakodate Mountain Ropeway to the summit (around 18:00)
- Enjoy the night view (1 hour)
- Dinner near Hakodate Station after descending
Course to Tour Leisurely Over Two Days
For those with more time, it’s recommended to take two days to tour the sacred sites leisurely and also enjoy Hakodate sightseeing.
Day 1: Centered on Bay Area and Motomachi Area
- Morning: Hakodate Station, Kanomorī Red Brick Warehouse, Nishi Hatodome
- Lunch: Lucky Pierrot or seafood cuisine
- Afternoon: Hachiman-zaka, touring historical buildings in the Motomachi area
- Evening: Enjoy the night view at Hakodate Mountain
Day 2: Goryokaku Area and Others
- Morning: Goryokaku Tower, stroll through Goryokaku Park
- Lunch: Yakitori bento from Hasegawa Store
- Afternoon: Hakodate Morning Market, Hakodate Arena (exterior)
- Evening: Purchase souvenirs around Hakodate Station
Precautions and Etiquette for Sacred Site Pilgrimages
Etiquette When Photographing
When making a sacred site pilgrimage, observe the following etiquette.
Photography in Public Spaces
- Be considerate not to block pedestrian traffic
- Avoid prolonged occupation
- Decide on tripod use based on surrounding conditions
- Refrain from loud conversations or shouting
Photography at Stores
- Always obtain permission before photographing inside stores
- Be careful not to disturb other customers
- Don’t enter with the sole purpose of photography; purchase products
Clothing and Belongings by Season
Spring (April–May)
- Temperature: 5–15 degrees
- Clothing: Light down jacket, sweater
- Highlights: Cherry blossoms at Goryokaku (late April–early May)
Summer (June–August)
- Temperature: 15–25 degrees
- Clothing: Long-sleeve shirt, light jacket (for morning and evening)
- Note: Not as hot as Honshu, but sunshine is strong
Autumn (September–November)
- Temperature: 5–18 degrees
- Clothing: Thick jacket, sweater
- Highlights: Autumn foliage (mid-October–early November)
Winter (December–March)
- Temperature: -5–5 degrees
- Clothing: Thick coat, gloves, muffler, cold-weather shoes
- Note: Be careful of frozen roads; non-slip shoes are essential
Common Belongings
- Smartphone/camera (spare battery recommended)
- Sacred site pilgrimage map (available at tourist information offices)
- Mobile battery
- Beverages
- 1-day pass for tram and bus
Hakodate Cuisine and Lodging Information
Hakodate’s Specialty Foods
Enjoy Hakodate cuisine while on your sacred site pilgrimage.
Seafood Cuisine
At Hakodate Morning Market, you can enjoy fresh seafood bowls and squid sashimi. “Live squid” in particular is a Hakodate specialty.
Salt Ramen
Hakodate is the birthplace of salt ramen. The clear soup is its characteristic feature.
- Recommended restaurants: “Ajisai,” “Shiyōken,” “Ryūhō”
Squid Soumen
Thinly sliced fresh squid sashimi. Available at Hakodate Morning Market and seafood restaurants.
Genghis Khan
A Hokkaido specialty mutton barbecue dish. Enjoy it at the “Hakodate Beer Hall” inside Kanomorī Red Brick Warehouse and elsewhere.
Recommended Lodging Areas
Around Hakodate Station
- Excellent transportation convenience, ideal as a starting point for sacred site pilgrimages
- Many business hotels with reasonable prices
- Recommended: “Rabista Hakodate Bay,” “Hotel WBF Grande Hakodate”
Bay Area
- Close to Kanomorī Red Brick Warehouse and Nishi Hatodome
- Many hotels with good atmosphere
- Recommended: “Hakodate International Hotel,” “Hotel Chocolate Hakodate”
Yugawa Onsen
- Close to Hakodate Airport and hot springs available
- Approximately 30 minutes by tram to the bay area
- Recommended: “Yugawa Prince Hotel Nagisa-tei,” “Heiseiden Kaiyō-tei”
Enjoying Sacred Site Pilgrimages Further
Official Goods and Collaboration Products
Collaboration products with “Love Live! Sunshine!!” are sometimes sold throughout Hakodate. Limited goods may be available especially during commemorative events.
Main Sales Locations
- Gift shops inside Kanomorī Red Brick Warehouse
- Souvenir shops inside Hakodate Station
- Animate Hakodate store (Goryokaku area)
Information Gathering on Social Media
Searching for hashtags such as “#ラブライブサンシャイン函館” or “#函館聖地巡礼” on Twitter and Instagram will find the latest sacred site information and pilgrimage reports from other fans.
Hakodate City Tourism Information
Hakodate City Tourist Information Office
- Location: Inside JR Hakodate Station
- Hours: 9:00–19:00 (April–October), 9:00–17:00 (November–March)
- Services: Distribution of tourism maps, lodging information, luggage storage
Hakobura (Hakodate City Official Tourism Information Site)
Abundant information on Hakodate tourist attractions, event information, and cuisine. Useful as reference when planning your sacred site pilgrimage.
Conclusion: The Special Experience Gained from a Hakodate Sacred Site Pilgrimage
A Hakodate sacred site pilgrimage for “Love Live! Sunshine!!” has value beyond simply visiting the stage of an anime. Because the work is set in Hakodate, a beautiful tourist city, it allows you to enjoy both sacred site pilgrimage and sightseeing simultaneously—a luxurious experience.
When you climb Hachiman-zaka recalling the “Awaken the power” scene from episode 9, when you savor a Futoccho Burger at Lucky Pierrot, when you gaze upon 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 sacred site pilgrimages, you can deepen your love for the work and also discover the charm of Hakodate as a city.
Please use this article as a reference to create your own Hakodate sacred site pilgrimage plan and embark on this special journey following in the footsteps of Aqours. It will surely become an unforgettable memory.
