Japan's Oldest Ferris Wheel: A Living Cultural Treasure in Hakodate
Nestled within the charming grounds of Hakodate Park in southern Hokkaido, the Hakodate Park Kodomo no Kuni Aerial Ferris Wheel (函館公園こどものくに空中観覧車) stands as a remarkable piece of living history. Built in 1950, this modest yet captivating Ferris wheel holds the distinguished title of being the oldest operating Ferris wheel in Japan. In 2019, it was officially registered as a National Registered Tangible Cultural Property, a testament to its enduring significance in Japan's cultural and industrial heritage.
Far from the towering modern observation wheels found in major cities, this intimate 10-meter-tall structure offers visitors something far more precious — a genuine connection to the Showa era and the nostalgic spirit of postwar Japan. Riding its open-air gondolas is not just an amusement; it is a journey through time.
Historical Background
The Ferris wheel's story begins in 1950 (Showa 25), when it was originally installed at the shores of Lake Onuma in the neighboring town of Nanae, within the Onuma Quasi-National Park. At the time, Japan was in the midst of postwar recovery, and simple amusements like this Ferris wheel brought joy to communities rebuilding their lives.
In 1965 (Showa 40), the Ferris wheel was relocated to its current home at Kodomo no Kuni ("Children's Land"), a small amusement park within Hakodate Park. The park itself, established in 1879 (Meiji 12), is one of Japan's oldest urban parks, created through the initiative of the British Consul stationed in Hakodate and the generous contributions of local citizens. Kodomo no Kuni opened in 1956 (Showa 31) and has been delighting families ever since.
In 2006, the entire Hakodate Park — including the amusement rides at Kodomo no Kuni — was designated as a National Registered Memorial (Scenic Site), making it Japan's only amusement park recognized as a cultural property. Then, in December 2019, the Aerial Ferris Wheel itself received individual recognition as a National Registered Tangible Cultural Property.
Why It Was Designated a Cultural Property
The Ferris wheel was registered as a Tangible Cultural Property under the criterion that it contributes to the historical landscape of the nation. The Cultural Affairs Council specifically noted the following points in its evaluation:
- It is the oldest surviving Ferris wheel currently in operation in Japan, making it an exceptionally rare piece of industrial heritage.
- It serves as an iconic symbol of Hakodate Park, contributing significantly to the local historical landscape.
- Its steel-frame construction — featuring a distinctive octagonal wheel made of angle steel beams arranged radially, with the outer ring and two intermediate rings connected in an octagonal pattern — is a valuable example of mid-20th century engineering.
The designation recognizes not only the physical structure but also the cultural continuity it represents — over seven decades of providing joy to generations of families in Hakodate.
Architectural and Engineering Highlights
The Ferris wheel's construction is a fascinating example of early postwar Japanese engineering. The structure consists of two main steel support pillars spaced 2.2 meters apart, between which a wheel with a diameter of 8 meters is mounted. Unlike modern circular Ferris wheels, the wheel forms a distinctive octagonal shape, created by double-backed angle steel beams arranged in a radial pattern and connected at the outer rim and two intermediate points by additional angle steel members forming octagonal rings.
Eight two-seater bench-style gondolas are suspended from the outer edge of the wheel. These gondolas are notably open-air — there are no enclosed capsules. Riders sit on a bench, close a front railing, and hold onto a lowered safety bar, resulting in an exhilarating sense of openness that is impossible to experience on modern enclosed Ferris wheels.
The total height of the structure reaches 10 meters. A single revolution takes approximately 3 minutes and 45 seconds, during which riders are treated to views of the Tsugaru Strait to the right and Mount Hakodate to the left. Despite its compact size, the open design and the gentle sway of the gondolas create an unexpectedly thrilling ride that has been described by the park itself as "a screamer in its own way."
Highlights and Visitor Experience
Riding Japan's oldest Ferris wheel is an experience unlike any other. As the wheel slowly lifts you above the treetops of Hakodate Park, the lack of enclosure creates an intimate, almost meditative experience. The breeze from the Tsugaru Strait, the panoramic views of Hakodate's historic Western District, and the distant silhouette of Mount Hakodate combine to create memories that linger long after the ride ends.
The broader Kodomo no Kuni amusement park adds to the charm with 16 types of attractions, many of which have been operating since the park's opening in 1956. The merry-go-round and sky chairs are original rides that still run today, and admission to the park itself is free. Individual ride tickets cost 350 yen each, with an eight-ticket set available for 2,500 yen and a free pass for 2,800 yen.
Spring is a particularly magical time to visit. Hakodate Park is one of the earliest cherry blossom viewing spots in Hokkaido, with the blossoms typically reaching full bloom around late April. Riding the Ferris wheel while surrounded by cherry blossoms in full bloom is one of Hakodate's most beloved seasonal experiences.
Surrounding Attractions
Hakodate Park and its surroundings offer a wealth of experiences for visitors:
- Hakodate Park Mini Zoo: A free animal facility within the park, home to rabbits, Ezo squirrels, ducks, swans, peacocks, iguanas, and turtles — perfect for families.
- Former Hakodate Museum No. 1 and No. 2: Designated Hokkaido Tangible Cultural Properties, these historic museum buildings within the park showcase Hakodate's rich history.
- Shirakawa Bridge: Hokkaido's first Western-style stone bridge, also located within the park grounds.
- Hakodate Park Bamboo Grove: A rare sight in Hokkaido, where bamboo rarely grows due to the cold climate.
- Tachimachi Cape: A short walk from the park, offering stunning views of the Tsugaru Strait with the Shimokita and Tsugaru Peninsulas visible in the distance.
- Yachigashira Onsen: A nearby public hot spring, ideal for relaxing after a day of exploring the park.
- Mount Hakodate: Famous for its world-class night view, accessible by ropeway, bus, or on foot from the surrounding area.
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Q&A
- How old is the Hakodate Park Kodomo no Kuni Aerial Ferris Wheel?
- The Ferris wheel was built in 1950, making it over 75 years old. It was originally installed at Lake Onuma in Nanae Town and relocated to its current location in Hakodate Park in 1965. It is recognized as the oldest operating Ferris wheel in Japan.
- When is the Ferris wheel open to visitors?
- Kodomo no Kuni is open from mid-March to late November, weather permitting (closed during rain). Weekday hours are 11:00–16:00; weekends, holidays, and school vacation periods operate from 10:00–17:00. The park is closed during winter from late November to mid-March.
- How much does it cost to ride the Ferris wheel?
- Admission to Kodomo no Kuni is free. Each ride requires one ticket (350 yen). An eight-ticket set is available for 2,500 yen, and a day free pass costs 2,800 yen.
- Is the Ferris wheel safe for young children?
- Yes. Although the gondolas are open-air bench-style seats without enclosed capsules, children can ride safely with an accompanying adult. The park conducts daily inspections, monthly maintenance, and an annual national safety inspection to ensure all rides meet safety standards.
- How do I get to Hakodate Park?
- Take the Hakodate streetcar (tram) bound for Yachigashira and alight at Aoyagi-cho Station, then walk approximately 2–3 minutes. By car, the park is about 10 minutes from JR Hakodate Station. Free parking is available, with additional temporary parking during the cherry blossom season.
Basic Information
| Name | Hakodate Park Kodomo no Kuni Aerial Ferris Wheel (函館公園こどものくに空中観覧車) |
|---|---|
| Cultural Property Designation | National Registered Tangible Cultural Property (Registered December 5, 2019) |
| Year Built | 1950 (Showa 25); relocated to current site in 1965 (Showa 40) |
| Structure | Steel-frame construction; height 10 m; wheel diameter 8 m; pillar spacing 2.2 m; 8 bench-style gondolas |
| Owner | Hokkai Kogyo Co., Ltd. (北海興業株式会社) |
| Location | 17 Aoyagi-cho, Hakodate, Hokkaido, Japan |
| Access | 2-minute walk from Aoyagi-cho Station on the Hakodate Streetcar; approximately 10 minutes by car from JR Hakodate Station |
| Operating Season | Mid-March to late November (closed during winter and rainy days) |
| Hours | Weekdays: 11:00–16:00; Weekends/Holidays: 10:00–17:00 |
| Admission | Free entry to Kodomo no Kuni; ride tickets 350 yen each (8-ticket set: 2,500 yen; free pass: 2,800 yen) |
References
- 函館公園こどものくに空中観覧車 - 文化遺産オンライン
- https://bunka.nii.ac.jp/heritages/detail/413945
- 「函館公園こどものくに空中観覧車」が新たに国の登録有形文化財に登録されました - 函館市
- https://www.city.hakodate.hokkaido.jp/docs/2019051300012/
- 函館公園 こどものくに - はこぶら（函館市公式観光サイト）
- https://www.hakobura.jp/spots/351
- 昭和レトロな"映えスポット"として再注目！日本最古の観覧車のある「函館公園こどものくに」の魅力を徹底解説 - Domingo
- https://domingo.ne.jp/article/41350
- 『函館公園こどものくに』にある国内最古と国内初の乗り物・遊具とは? - 北海道ファンマガジン
- https://hokkaidofan.com/201405kodomonokuni/
Last verified: 2026.03.28