Western facade of the Cathedral (Photo Credit: Damian Neufeld, Ennead Architects)
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St. John's Church Hakodate

4.1
·322 reviews·Hakodate, Japan

A small, modern Anglican church offering peaceful reflection and stunning panoramic views of Hakodate city.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Daytime

For the best city views

CrowdLow
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Western facade of the Cathedral (Photo Credit: Damian Neufeld, Ennead Architects)

St. John's Church Hakodate

Best Time

Daytime

For the best city views

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A small, modern Anglican church offering peaceful reflection and stunning panoramic views of Hakodate city.

4.1
(322 reviews)

"Fabulous and cozy church with a commanding view of the city, offering peace and happiness."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Opening Hours

Verify the church's operating hours before your visit, as it can sometimes be closed unexpectedly . :clock1:

Admire the Cross Motifs

Look for the many cross shapes throughout the church, from its exterior to interior details . :cross:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Architectural Details

Architectural Details

Exterior and interior

Admire the numerous cross shapes, from the church's overall design to intricate window and entrance engravings.

Panoramic City Views

Panoramic City Views

From the church grounds

Enjoy a commanding and fantastic view of Hakodate city, especially captivating on a clear day.

Peaceful Atmosphere

Peaceful Atmosphere

Inside the church

Experience a fabulous and cozy atmosphere that offers a sense of peace and happiness.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit

While St. John's Church Hakodate is free to enter, its opening hours can be limited, especially outside of peak tourist seasons. Check the schedule beforehand to avoid disappointment, as some visitors have found it closed unexpectedly.Reddit

Embrace the Views

The church offers a commanding view of Hakodate city.Reddit Arrive during daylight hours to fully appreciate the panoramic scenery, which is particularly stunning on a cold winter day.Reddit

Best Times

When
Daytime
Why
For the best city views
Crowd
Low
When
Winter afternoons
Why
Cozy and stunning views
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Truly one of the best place I’ve stayed at in Japan! Cost for this room was around $600-650 AUD per nightthere are two buildings of this place if you want this exact experience choose the one with the word “Hanatsuki”. Perfect Hokkaido holiday place! #placesinsydney #japan #travel #japantravel #traveljapan #hokkaido #hakodate #heiseikanshiosaite #ryokan #平成館しおさい亭 #onsen #hotsprings #bath #hotsprin...
@adrianwidjy
46.9K likes • 532.3K views

Check Opening Hours

Verify the church's operating hours before your visit, as it can sometimes be closed unexpectedly.Reddit :clock1:

Admire the Cross Motifs

Look for the many cross shapes throughout the church, from its exterior to interior details.Reddit :cross:

ใครมา Hakodate จะพลาดที่นี้ไม่ได้จริงๆ🍣🍱 #hakodate #lavistahakodatebay #japanvlog #hokkaido @Fern & Third
@fernandthird
19.9K likes • 310.9K views
We hope to see you at Choral Evensong with the Choir of St. John’s and Special Guests this evening at 5:30 pm. #HolyWeek
stjohnsmemphis
14 likes • 510 views

Enjoy the City Vista

Take in the commanding views of Hakodate city from the church grounds; it's a highlight for many visitors.Reddit :cityscape:

Free Entry & Parking

Entry to the church is free, and there are free parking lots available nearby. :car:

• DIANA & CHARLES • A dreamy candlelit ceremony at St John’s Church, Hyde Park. White florals, soft candlelight, and the perfect romantic setting for the lovely @dianadanielasnow & @charles_ssnow special day! 🤍 Decor by us: @cloudsixtyevents ______ #LuxuryWedding #LondonWeddings #ChurchWedding #WeddingInspo #RomanticWeddings #WeddingDecorIdeas #CandlelitCeremony #ElegantWeddings #hydepark #...
cloudsixtyevents
0 likes • 1.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Opening Hours

Verify the church's operating hours before your visit, as it can sometimes be closed unexpectedly.Reddit :clock1:

Admire the Cross Motifs

Look for the many cross shapes throughout the church, from its exterior to interior details.Reddit :cross:

Enjoy the City Vista

Take in the commanding views of Hakodate city from the church grounds; it's a highlight for many visitors.Reddit :cityscape:

Free Entry & Parking

Entry to the church is free, and there are free parking lots available nearby. :car:

What Travellers Say

4.1
(322 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find St. John's Church Hakodate to be a small, cozy, and modern Episcopalian church with interesting architecture and a peaceful atmosphere. The commanding views of Hakodate city are a major highlight, making it a worthwhile stop for many. However, some have noted that the architecture might be considered too modern by some, and the church can sometimes be closed unexpectedly.

"Small church. Really small church with some free parking lots. If you walk the surrounding you will find plenty of impressive flower clans. Free to enter and free parking."

Mervyn Phea

"This is a place where you can see many cross shapes, from the overall appearance of the church to the details of the church, such as windows and entrances with cross shapes engraved on them. You can get a glimpse of the faith of the person who built this place through the white exterior walls and several crosses.

This church was built when Anglican missionaries began missionary work in Hakodate after the opening of the port. When first established, it was built of wood, but after being destroyed by fire, it was rebuilt in its current form in 1979."

Platinum Guide

"Fabulous and cozy church where we can find peace and get a little bit more happy. The view is absolutely fantastic, the architecture a bit too modern maybe but still interesting. An absolute 5 Star experience on a cold chilling winter day"

JC MONTE CARLO

What People Like

Peaceful and cozy atmosphere
Commanding city views
Free entry and parking

What People Dislike

Modern architecture
Occasional closures

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

St. John's Church Hakodate is accessible by car, with free parking available nearby.Reddit If you're exploring Hakodate, you might also encounter old trams, which are a unique mode of transport in the city.TikTok

Yes, there are free parking lots available near the church, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to St. John's Church Hakodate is free of charge, allowing everyone to visit and experience its peaceful atmosphere.Reddit

The opening hours can vary, and it's advisable to check them in advance as some visitors have found the church closed during their planned visit.Reddit Social media posts often highlight specific events like Choral Evensong.Instagram

While many visitors can access the interior, some have reported finding it closed upon arrival.Reddit It's best to confirm hours or look for specific service times if you wish to see the inside.

📸 📸 Photography

While specific rules may vary, generally, respectful photography is permitted in many churches. However, always be mindful of ongoing services or prayer times. The exterior architecture and the city views are excellent subjects.Reddit

The commanding view of Hakodate city from the church grounds is a prime photo opportunity.Reddit The unique architectural details, especially the cross motifs, also make for interesting shots.Reddit

🎫 ⛪ Onsite Experience

St. John's Church Hakodate was established by Anglican missionaries after the port opened. It was initially built of wood and rebuilt in its current form in 1979 after a fire.Reddit

The church is described as a small, cozy, and modern Anglican church with interesting architecture.Reddit Some find the architecture a bit too modern, but still engaging.Reddit

The church features numerous cross shapes, reflecting the faith of its builders. These are visible in the overall design and in detailed engravings on windows and entrances.Reddit

It serves as both. While it is an active place of worship for the Episcopalian community,Reddit its unique architecture and city views also make it a point of interest for tourists visiting Hakodate.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

St. John's Church Hakodate offers a peaceful stop with a great view, which can be a nice break for families. The free entry and parking are definite pluses for budget-conscious families.Reddit While the church itself is small and modern,Reddit the visual appeal of the cross motifs might spark curiosity in children.Reddit The panoramic city view is also a good way to engage younger visitors, offering a sense of scale and perspective.

Keep in mind that the church's primary function is as a place of worship, so maintaining a respectful demeanor is important. It's also advisable to check the opening hours beforehand, as unexpected closures could be disappointing for families with a tight schedule.Reddit Consider it a brief, scenic, and historically interesting stop on your Hakodate itinerary.

🚶 Solo Travelers & Budget Explorers

For solo travelers and those on a budget, St. John's Church Hakodate is an excellent find. Its free entry and nearby free parking make it an accessible and cost-effective attraction.Reddit The church offers a moment of quiet reflection and a chance to appreciate unique architecture and the symbolism of the cross motifs.Reddit

The commanding city views are a significant draw, providing a fantastic backdrop for photos and a moment to soak in the surroundings without spending a yen.Reddit Many solo travelers appreciate finding these smaller, less crowded spots that offer a genuine sense of place and peace.Reddit Just remember to verify the opening hours to ensure you can experience its offerings.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History and Faith

St. John's Church Hakodate holds a significant place in the history of Hakodate's religious landscape. Established by Anglican missionaries during the era of port opening, it represents the early spread of Christianity in the region.Reddit The original wooden structure was tragically lost to fire, leading to its reconstruction in 1979 in its current form.Reddit This rebuilding signifies resilience and a continued commitment to its spiritual mission.

The architecture of St. John's Church Hakodate is a key feature that draws visitors. Described as a small, cozy, and modern Anglican church, it presents an interesting architectural style that some find contemporary.Reddit A prominent element is the pervasive use of cross motifs, evident not only in the church's overall design but also in the finer details like window frames and entrance engravings.Reddit These symbols offer a visual testament to the deep faith of those who built and continue to worship here.

Beyond its architectural and historical significance, the church offers a serene environment. Visitors often describe it as a place where they can find peace and feel a sense of happiness.Reddit This tranquil atmosphere, combined with the commanding views of Hakodate city, makes it a unique destination that appeals to both spiritual seekers and sightseers alike.

Experiencing the Views and Atmosphere

One of the most frequently praised aspects of St. John's Church Hakodate is the breathtaking panoramic view it offers of the city.Reddit Perched in a commanding position, the church grounds provide an excellent vantage point to take in the sprawling urban landscape, especially on a clear day. This scenic backdrop is particularly memorable for visitors, with some noting its fabulous nature even on a cold, chilling winter day.Reddit

The atmosphere within and around the church is another draw. It's often described as fabulous and cozy, creating a sense of peace and well-being for those who visit.Reddit This tranquil environment makes it a welcome respite from the bustle of travel. While the architecture is noted as modern,Reddit it contributes to a unique and interesting aesthetic that complements the serene feeling of the place.

For those planning a visit, timing is key to fully enjoy these aspects. Arriving during daylight hours ensures you can fully appreciate the city vistas.Reddit While the church is free to enter and offers free parking,Reddit it's wise to check its operating hours beforehand, as some visitors have found it closed unexpectedly.Reddit This ensures your experience is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

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