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, the fortress 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.

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

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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 park.

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.

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