Goryokaku

Goryokaku from Goryokaku Tower
Goryokaku viewed from the Goryokaku Tower

Goyokaku is a former strategic battle fort famously known for its unique star shape. Goryokaku was constructed between 1857 and 1864, during the final years of the Edo period. It was designed by Takeda Ayasaburō, a Japanese scholar of Western studies, and influenced by the military architect Vauban’s designs. 

Today, Goryokaku is a public park and a popular tourist attraction. The grounds are known for their beautiful cherry blossoms which outline the park boundary and are littered all throughout the park. The park can get very busy during spring for this reason. It is free to enter and walk around the park. 

 

The Former Magistrate Office in Goryokaku Park
Former Magistrate Office in the heart of Goryokaku Park

In the centre of the star-shaped fortress, stands a reconstruction of the Former Magistrate’s Office – whom used to manage the administration of Hokkaido during the Edo period. While originally destroyed in 1871 after the Shogunate had fallen, it was beautifully reconstructed in 2010. Inside, there is a small museum which outlines the history of the region, the fort, and displays several historical artifacts. Entry to the Former Magistrate Office is 500 JPY, and you are asked to remove your shoes while inside. 

The view of Goryokaku can best be enjoyed from Goryokaku Tower, an observation deck located on the south side of Goryokaku Park. The Observation Tower costs 1000JPY for entry and stands tall at 107m, providing a 360° view of Goryokaku and Hakodate city.

 

Hours and Admission

Goryokaku Tower

Former Magistrate Office

Accessing Goryokaku & Goryokaku Tower

Goryokaku and Goryokaku Tower are both found in the north-east of Hakodate City. It can be accessed via public transport from Hakodate Station. Take the number 2 or number 5 from from Hakodate Ekimae tram station (just outside the main exit of JR Hakodate Station) to Goryokaku-koen-mae Tram Stop. From Goryokaku-koen-mae there will be a 10 minute, flat and easy walk to Goryokaku Tower.

The tram will cost 320JPY one way, and take about 15 minutes. 

Hakodate City offers an all-day tram pass for 600JPY, which covers unlimited rides on the trams for the day of validity. Just show your pass to the tram driver. This can be purchased from the Tourist Information office at JR Hakodate Station. 

Klook.com

Discover Japan like never before with the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass), your ticket to seamless travel across the Japan. Unlock the full potential of Japan’s extensive rail network, renowned for its punctuality, comfort, and convenience.

Discover Japan like never before with the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass), your ticket to seamless travel across the Japan. Unlock the full potential of Japan’s extensive rail network, renowned for its punctuality, comfort, and convenience. Read More…

Forget the hassle of purchasing individual tickets for every journey. The JR Pass offers exceptional value for money, available in flexible durations ranging from 7 to 21 days, allowing you to tailor your travel experience to suit your itinerary. Read More…

Where to Stay

Booking.com

Guesthouse Tomoe

Welcoming guesthouse with fun and quirky decor, located only a few minutes away from Hakodate Station.

Book Now (Booking.com)Book Now (Agoda)
Booking.com

APA Hakodate Ekimae

Affordable and modern chain hotel, located centrally in Hakodate.

Book Now (Booking.com)Book Now (Agoda)
Booking.com

Hakodate Kokusai

Modern and spacious hotel with ocean views, centrally located a short walk from Hakodate Station.

Book Now (Booking.com)Book Now (Agoda)

Explore more in Hokkaido