❄️ January 20th Update: Surviving a Heavy Snowstorm in Hakodate

Hello everyone. Today, January 20, 2026, Hokkaido was hit by a massive snowstorm. Even while driving, I experienced frequent “whiteouts” where visibility drops to zero. Hakodate is seeing its heaviest snow of the winter, causing traffic accidents and congestion across the city.

Current Transport Status:

• Streetcars (Tram): Suspended since evening after getting stuck in deep snow.

• Hakodate Airport: Flights from Haneda and Itami were forced to turn back.

• JR Limited Express Hokuto: Significant delays and several cancellations between Sapporo and Hakodate.

No matter how advanced our technology is, humans are no match for heavy snow and high winds. If you find yourself stranded in Hakodate due to this “Act of God,” here are a few professional tips to help you get through it.

A snow-covered street in Hakodate on Jan 20, 2026. Road conditions are extremely poor.

1. Waiting at the Airport? Head to the 3rd Floor.

If you’re waiting for a standby flight, the 3rd-floor food court is my top recommendation. It was remodeled in 2025 and offers authentic Hakodate ramen and seafood bowls. Watching the snow blanket the runway through the large windows is actually quite an atmospheric and unique experience.

Click here for details on the newly renovated food court. It’s a comfortable place to relax while you wait.
https://www.hokkaido-airports.com/en/hakodate/foodcourtlp/

2. Stranded Near the Shinkansen Station?

If you need to catch the first train tomorrow morning from Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station, I recommend staying at “Hotel La’gent Plaza Hakodate Hokuto.”

Local Tip: It’s best to finish your dinner near Hakodate Station before heading to this area. While the hotel has a restaurant, you’ll have much better dining options in the city center. Once your stomach is full, the 1-minute walk from the hotel to the station will save you a lot of stress in the morning.

3. Don’t Hesitate to Ask for Taxi Bookings

When the snow is heavy enough to stop the trams, catching a taxi becomes a real challenge. If you have dinner reservations, try to book your taxi well in advance.

As a hotelier, I hate seeing guests struggle to find a ride. We will do our absolute best to help you secure transportation, so please feel free to ask the front desk—even if it’s a booking for the next day.

If you are truly desperate, your best chance of finding a taxi is at the taxi pool right in front of Hakodate Station.

HAKODATE Travel Tips