Hakodate
Arrived at Hakodate around 7:00am on a clear, sunny morning with temperature around 14C. It continued fine all day although windy and up to 20C in the afternoon. Hakodate is a city and port and the capital of Oshima Subprefecture on the northern island of Hokkaido. The city has an estimated population of 250,000 and is the third largest in Hokkaido after Sapporo and Asahikawa. Today was a tour out to Onuma park about 20k north of the city. 18 of us on bus #8 with our local guide Tomo. We left just after 09:00am and proceeded out of town for about 30 minutes to reach the park entrance. Designated as a “quasi national park”, Ōnuma Kōen is known for its picturesque, island dotted lakes and majestic volcano Mount Komagatake. This active volcano rises to 1356M. On arrival at the park we were given 1 hour of free time to walk round one of the 2 main lakes. There are a series of small islands connected by bridges and the uneven path follows along. An interesting walk with great views of the distant volcano. Wildlife observed were a few ducks and grebes as well as carp in the water. Back at the park entrance by 11:15am we boarded one of the long river boats for a 30 minute ride around both of the main lakes. Returned by bus to the dockside by 1:00pm. In the afternoon walked back ashore into the town which was very close. The fish market was closed but there are many restaurants in this area. Saw some trams running which was of great interest to me.
