Mention you've been to Hakodate and every Japanese person you know will ask if you took in the night view from atop Hakodate-yama – it's that famous! Take the ropeway (gondola) to the top for amazing views over the city. Take tram 2 or 5 to the Jūjigai stop, and walk uphill to the ropeway station.
Alternatively, a summit-bound bus (¥360, 30 minutes) leaves directly from JR Hakodate Station, and stops at several viewing places as it winds to the top. You can also drive up or take the hiking track (from May to late October).
