What’s a Squid Dance? Find out at the Hakodate Port Festival.
What happens?
This annual event draws a huge crowd. From August 1 to August 5, 2024, the Hakodate Port Festival transforms the city with its biggest summer celebration. The festival kicks off with a spectacular fireworks display over Hakodate Bay on August 1.
The following days feature vibrant parades with mikoshi (portable shrines) and beautifully decorated floats, filling the streets with energy. Don’t miss the iconic “Ika Odori” (Squid Dance), where locals and visitors alike join in a joyous, communal dance. Street stalls offer delicious local food, and the unique Flower Tram adds to the festive atmosphere.
Schedule 2024
The most important events are:
August 1
- 19:45-20:50: Enjoy a breathtaking fireworks display around Hakodate Port at the 69th Doushin Fireworks Festival.
August 2
- 17:30-21:00: Join the festivities along the Toyokawa-cho to Hakodate Station to Matsukaze-cho route, featuring the Hakodate Port Dance, Children’s Squid Dance and Summer Carnival, and the official Hakodate Squid Dance.
August 3
- 17:30-21:00: More dancing, this time along a different route (Chiyodai/Goryokaku Course).
How to get there
By train
It takes approximately 4 to 4.5 hours from Tokyo to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto, currently the end of the line for the Hokkaidō Shinkansen. From there, change to the local Hakodate Line and ride for two stops (approximately 17 minutes) until Hakodate Station.
The festival location is roughly 5 minutes on foot from the station.
By plane
There are regular flights between Tokyo and Hakodate. A one-way direct flight takes roughly 90 minutes. Prices vary depending on the airline, but you may be able to get a good deal if you opt for a low-cost carrier.
Organizers may cancel events, alter schedules, or change admission requirements without notice. Always check official sites before heading to an event.