History and Charm of Goryokaku
Goryokaku is a star-shaped fortress located in Hakodate, Hokkaido, and was constructed in the late Edo period. This unique shape was influenced by Western fortress architecture and has become one of the defining features of Goryokaku. It played a significant role during the Battle of Hakodate, which was part of the Boshin War. Today, its historical value is highly regarded, and it has become a popular tourist attraction for many visitors.
The View from Goryokaku Tower
Goryokaku Tower is an observation tower located within Goryokaku Park, offering a perfect vantage point to view the entire layout of the fortress. The tower stands 107.5 meters tall, and from the top, you can enjoy panoramic views of Hakodate city and the sea. In particular, during the spring, the star-shaped fortress of Goryokaku creates a beautiful contrast with the cherry blossoms, making it even more worthwhile to visit.
Goryokaku Tower Hours and Details
| Location | 43-9 Goryokaku-cho, Hakodate, Hokkaido |
| Operating Hours (Year-Round) | 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM Last Ticket Sales for the Observation Deck: 6:50 PM |
| Access | About 20 minutes by city tram from Hakodate Station, get off at “Goryokaku Park-mae” and walk 5 minutes |
| Official Website | Goryokaku Tower |
My Recommendation
Goryokaku is one of the most famous tourist spots in Hakodate. I highly recommend first heading up to the Goryokaku Tower to get a bird’s-eye view of the star-shaped fortress, and then taking a leisurely walk around the park. Especially during the cherry blossom season, it gets very crowded, so it’s a good idea to purchase tickets in advance for a smoother experience.
Goryokaku is surrounded by impressive moats and stone walls, and once inside, it’s so quiet that you can forget the hustle and bustle of the city. The air is calm, and you barely feel the wind. The vast lawn is dotted with stately pine trees, creating a peaceful atmosphere. Just sitting on the grass or a bench is incredibly refreshing, and it’s the perfect spot to read a book. I spent some time relaxing here, and it was a great way to refresh both mentally and physically.