OMO5 Hakodate by Hoshino Resorts is set to operate the "Hakodate Mt. Night View Direct Bus" from April 20 through November 10, 2026 (tentative). The service runs non-stop from the hotel directly to the summit of Mt. Hakodate, offering guests a way to experience one of Japan's three best night views while avoiding the busiest evening hours.
Background: Rethinking the Mt. Hakodate Night View Experience
Mt. Hakodate's panoramic night view is among the city's most iconic attractions — 79.5% of visitors to Hakodate cite it as a primary purpose of their trip (Hakodate City Tourism Survey, FY2022). The return of tourism demand in recent years has brought renewed crowds to the summit area and the ropeway, with long queues becoming a common frustration for visitors.
Hakodate night view. Photo courtesy of Hakodate City.
OMO5 Hakodate developed the direct bus concept around a key insight: visiting the summit a little after sunset — once the initial rush has eased — offers a noticeably calmer experience. At that hour, the city lights stand out more vividly against the night sky, and the summit becomes far less congested. By going directly from the hotel without any transfers, guests can also keep more time free for dinner and an evening walk around the city before heading up.
Feature 1: Up to 180 Guests Per Day After a 95%+ Occupancy Trial
OMO5 Hakodate original wrapping bus.
The service was first trialed in 2025 as a single large-bus run per day. It recorded an occupancy rate exceeding 95%, and 93% of surveyed riders reported being satisfied. In response, the 2026 season expands the service to up to four departures per day, with a maximum capacity of 180 guests daily.
Mt. Hakodate is one of Japan's Three Best Night Views, as recognized by the General Incorporated Association Night View Tourism Convention Bureau. The other two are Mt. Maya in Kobe and Mt. Inasa in Nagasaki.
Feature 2: OMO Rangers Onboard to Guide the Journey
OMO Rangers — staff who know Hakodate inside and out — guide guests on every trip to the summit.
The ride from the hotel to the summit takes roughly 20 minutes. An "OMO Ranger" travels on each bus, sharing highlights from the summit along with lesser-known ways to enjoy the night view. They also offer tips on local spots to visit the following day, turning the bus ride into its own part of the Hakodate experience.
Service Details
- Period: April 20 – November 10, 2026 (tentative)
- Operating Hours: Between 6:00 PM and 10:00 PM (90 minutes per trip)
- Price: ¥2,000 per person
- Reservations: Required via the official website
- Eligibility: Hotel guests only
- Meeting Point: Hotel front desk
After the Night View: "Glow of the Night: HAKODATE Hour" at OMO Base
Guests returning from the summit can extend the evening at "Glow of the Night: HAKODATE Hour," an in-hotel event held at OMO Base. The venue is decorated with stained glass inspired by Hakodate's city lights, evoking the glow of the night view from above.
A hand organ concert is held twice daily.
Two varieties of sparkling melon soda and Hokkaido-select soft serve ice cream.
The event features live performances on a hand-cranked organ revived from Goryokaku Tower, and a lineup of limited menu items including two varieties of sparkling melon soda.
