⭐️ Goryokaku Guide: The Star of Hakodate’s History and Views

If there is one place that defines Hakodate’s history and beauty, it’s Goryokaku. This massive star-shaped fortress is a must-visit. Here is your complete guide to the park, the tower, and the historical office inside.

1. Goryokaku Park: Samurai History & Access Tips

A timeless symbol of Hakodate, showing its diverse beauty through the four seasons.

Goryokaku was Japan’s first Western-style star fort, built in the mid-19th century. It is famous as the final battleground of the civil war that ended the samurai era. The legendary Shinsengumi leader, Toshizo Hijikata, fought here, making it a “holy land” for history fans.

In the spring, the park transforms into one of Japan’s most stunning cherry blossom spotswith over 1,600 trees!

How to Get There (Read Carefully!)

By Streetcar (Tram): This is the best way. Take the tram from either Hakodate Station or the Yunokawa area and get off at “Goryokaku Koen-mae”.
⚠️ IMPORTANT WARNING: Do NOT get off at JR Goryokaku Station. It is a completely different location, and it is way too far to walk to the park from there.
By Bicycle: It takes about 20 minutes from Hakodate Station or the Red Brick Warehouse area. You can find rental cycles at both locations.

2. Goryokaku Tower: The Best 360° View

The tallest structure in Hakodate. Did you know this is actually the second-generation tower?

To see the famous star shape, you need to head up the Goryokaku Tower.

https://www.goryokaku-tower.co.jp/en/

Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Admission (Elevator): * Adults: 1,200 Yen * Junior/High School: 900 Yen * Elementary: 600 Yen
Pro Tip: There is a special surprise inside the elevator on the way up—we won’t spoil it, so enjoy the ride!
Crowds: On weekends and public holidays, be prepared for a wait at the elevator.
Layout: The 1st floor has a great souvenir shop, and the 2nd floor has restaurants. We recommend viewing the observation deck first, then enjoying your shopping and food on the way down.

3. Hakodate Magistrate’s Office (Hakodate Bugyosho)

Brought back to life after 140 years: The beautifully restored Hakodate Magistrate’s Office.

In the center of the park stands the Hakodate Magistrate’s Office. This was the seat of government for the Shogunate. The current building is a beautiful, precise reconstruction using traditional Japanese craftsmanship.

https://hakodate-bugyosho.jp/en/index.html

Why Visit: It’s a perfect example of traditional Japanese architecture and gives you a real feel for how officials lived 150 years ago.
Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Closes at 5:00 PM from November to March)
Admission: 500 Yen (Students: 250 Yen)

Whether you go for the history, the flowers, or the view, Goryokaku never disappoints.

HAKODATE Travel Tips

recent posts

about