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Goryokaku, completed in 1866 (Keio 2), was Japan's first fort built on the star-shaped bastion design developed by the French military engineer Sébastien de Vauban. Its five-pointed form was the setting for the Hakodate War (1868–1869) — the final battle of the Boshin War — in which former Shogunate forces including Enomoto Takeaki and Hijikata Toshizo made their last stand. Today the grounds form Goryokaku Park, famous for around 1,600 cherry trees in late April to early May. The 107 m Goryokaku Tower offers a complete overhead view of the star-shaped fort, with a detailed Hakodate War exhibition inside.
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この記事で分かること：Guide to Goryokaku: history, Goryokaku Tower, cherry blossoms, the Hakodate War, and access information.
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Japan's First Western-Style Fortress — the Star-Shaped Fort from Above
Completed in 1866, Goryokaku was Japan's first fort built on the star-shaped (bastion) design introduced by the French military engineer Vauban. The five-pointed star formation is best appreciated from the Goryokaku Tower, where it looks like an aerial photograph brought to life.
The Battleground of the Hakodate War — the Final Chapter of the Bakumatsu
The Hakodate War (1868–1869) was the last battle of the Boshin War. Former Shogunate forces including Hijikata Toshizo made their stand here. The tower museum brings the history vividly to life.
Around 1,600 Cherry Trees in Full Bloom Every Spring
Goryokaku Park is one of southern Hokkaido's premier cherry blossom spots, with roughly 1,600 trees. In late April to early May the star-shaped moat turns pink, and the view from the tower is especially beautiful.
Goryokaku Tower — A Bird's-Eye View of the Whole Fort
107 m tall with observation decks at 90 m and 86 m, Goryokaku Tower gives a complete overhead view of the star-shaped fortification and the city around it. The tower also houses an extensive exhibition on the Hakodate War. Admission ¥500.
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Basic Information
Tower Hours
8:00–19:00 (extended in summer)
Admission
Tower ¥500 (park is free)
Best Time
Morning (early morning during cherry blossom season)
Address
43-9 Goryokaku-cho, Hakodate, Hokkaido (tower)
Nearest Tram Stop
Hakodate City Tram "Goryokaku Koen-mae" — approx. 15 min walk
Bus
Hakodate Bus "Goryokaku Tower-mae" stop
What to See
1The View from Goryokaku Tower
Goryokaku Tower has two observation levels at 90 m and 86 m. The upper deck (90 m) gives a complete overhead view of the star-shaped fort — during cherry blossom season the moat and grounds fill with pink, creating a spectacular scene. A live camera feed inside the tower lets you see the full shape even in bad weather. The ground floor has a Hakodate War exhibition.
2The Hakodate War and the History of Goryokaku
Goryokaku was the stage for the Hakodate War (1868–1869), the final battle of the Boshin War. Former Shogunate forces led by Enomoto Takeaki and Hijikata Toshizo barricaded themselves here against the Meiji government army. Hijikata was killed in battle here, meeting his end in Hakodate. Stone walls and moats from that era still surround the park today, and the tower's exhibition is essential for Bakumatsu history enthusiasts.
3Cherry Blossoms and the Four Seasons
Goryokaku Park is one of the finest cherry blossom spots in Hakodate, with roughly 1,600 trees typically in full bloom from late April to early May. The rows of trees along the star-shaped moat are especially striking from the tower — a dramatic expression of Hokkaido's late, vivid spring. Summer brings lush green; autumn brings foliage. The park is always free to enter.
Getting There
By City Tram
Hakodate City Tram — "Goryokaku Koen-mae" stop, approx. 15 min walk to the tower
Approx. 20 min from Hakodate Station by tram
By Bus or Taxi
Hakodate Bus "Goryokaku Tower-mae" stop — right at the tower
Taxi from Hakodate Station: approx. 10 min (around ¥1,000)
Tips & Things to Know
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