Hakodate is a city best explored at a slow, scenic pace. The Hakodate Tram (Streetcar), with its charming retro carriages and convenient routes, is the most iconic and practical way to get around. Here is your complete guide to mastering the tram like a pro.

1. How to Ride & Pay (Step-by-Step)

Japanese trams might seem a bit tricky at first, but it’s actually quite simple once you know the flow!

Step 1: Boarding

　Enter through the middle or rear door of the tram.

Step 2: Payment Method

• Using IC Cards (Suica, PASMO, ICOCA, etc.): Simply tap your card on the reader located right at the entrance.
• Using Cash: Take a numbered ticket (Seiriken) from the small orange machine by the door. This shows where you boarded.

Step 3: Getting Off

　When your stop is announced, press the “Stop” button on the wall. 　Move to the front of the tram to exit.

Step 4: Paying Your Fare

• Using IC Cards: Tap your card again on the reader next to the driver.
• Using Cash: Check the screen at the front for the fare corresponding to your ticket number. Drop both the ticket and the exact change into the fare box. (Note: No change is given, so use the exchange machine next to the driver beforehand if you only have large coins or bills).

💡 Local Tip: IC Cards are highly recommended to avoid the hassle of counting small coins!

2. Recommended Passes (Best Value)

If you plan to ride the tram 3 or more times in a day, these passes will save you money.

Pass Type	Price(Adult)	Why Choose This?
1-Day Tram Pass	800 JPY	Unlimited rides for one day. Classic physical ticket.
Digital 1-Day Pass	800 JPY	Purchase and show on your smartphone. No need to worry about losing it!

📱 Go Digital: You can purchase digital passes via the “Dohna!!” web service. Setting this up over the hotel Wi-Fi before you head out is a smart move.

3. Route Overview (The Two Main Lines)

There are two main lines, but they share the same tracks for most of the scenic city center.

• Line 2 (Red Line): Runs between Yunokawa and Yachigashira.
• Line 5 (Blue Line): Runs between Yunokawa and Hakodate-Dokku-mae.

Crucial Point: Both lines follow the same route from “Yunokawa” all the way to “Jujigai.” If you are heading to the Red Brick Warehouses or the slopes, either line works! They only split after Jujigai.

4. Stop Index: Where to Explore

Click below to explore our detailed guides for each major stop (Updating regularly!):

• 📍 [Jujigai]: The gateway to the Bay Area and scenic slopes.
• 📍 [Suehiro-cho]: Best for Hachiman-zaka Slope and Old British Consulate.
• 📍 [Goryokaku-Koen-mae]: For Goryokaku Tower and the shopping district.
• 📍 [Hakodate-Ekimae]: Near JR Station, Morning Market, and the main hub.
• 📍 [Yunokawa-Onsen]: The entrance to the hot spring district and foot baths.

Enjoy every moment of your Hakodate journey, and travel safe!