Goryōkaku Tower: A Starry View of Hakodate's History
Panoramic views of Hakodate and the star-shaped Goryōkaku Fort, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and seasonal beauty from above.
Rising 107 meters above Goryōkaku Park, the Goryōkaku Tower provides an unmatched perspective of the star-shaped Goryōkaku Fort. This unique fortress, completed in 1866, was Japan's first Western-style fort, designed by Takeda Ayasaburō to defend northern Japan. The tower's observation decks at 86 and 90 meters offer 360-degree views of Hakodate, Mt. Hakodate, the Tsugaru Strait, and the Yokotsu mountain range. Goryōkaku Tower is more than just a viewpoint; it's a historical experience. The Goryōkaku Historical Gallery showcases the fort's history, including its role as the main headquarters of the short-lived Republic of Ezo. Visitors can explore exhibits detailing the Boshin War, the last battle of the Tokugawa Shogunate, and the fort's eventual conversion into a public park in 1914. A bronze statue of Hijikata Toshizo, a key figure in the Battle of Hakodate, stands as a tribute to the past. The tower's design reflects the star fort's unique shape, with a pentagonal observation deck and star-shaped sections. Exterior glass blocks display constellations visible from Hakodate, referencing Ayasaburo Takeda's work on astronomy. The tower is particularly stunning during cherry blossom season when the surrounding park turns pink with over 1,600 cherry trees. In winter, the Goryōkaku Dream Illumination lights up the moat, creating a brilliant star-shaped display. Visitors can enjoy shops, restaurants, and a café within the tower. The first-floor atrium offers a welcoming rest area and a gift shop with local crafts and souvenirs. Whether interested in history, architecture, or panoramic views, Goryōkaku Tower offers a memorable experience in Hakodate.
Local tips
- Visit during cherry blossom season (early May) for stunning pink views of the star-shaped fort.
- Go after dark in winter (December to February) to see the Goryōkaku Dream Illumination.
- Check the weather forecast for a clear day to maximize the panoramic views from the observation deck.
- Explore the Goryōkaku Historical Gallery to learn about the fort's role in Japanese history.
- Enjoy local treats and souvenirs at the tower's shops and restaurants.
A brief summary to Goryōkaku Tower
- 43-9 Goryokakucho, Hakodate, Goryokakucho, Hokkaido, 040-0001, JP
- +81138-51-4785
Getting There
-
Public Transport
From Hakodate Station, take the Hakodate City Tram to Goryokaku Koen-mae station. The tram ride takes approximately 10 minutes and costs ¥250. From Goryokaku Koen-mae station, it's about a 10-15 minute walk to Goryokaku Tower. Alternatively, take a Hakodate Bus from Hakodate Station to Goryokaku Koen Iriguchi. The bus ride takes about 15 minutes and costs between ¥210-¥400. From the bus stop, it is a 5-7 minute walk to the tower.
-
Taxi
From Hakodate Station, a taxi to Goryokaku Tower takes approximately 4 minutes and costs between ¥1,600 and ¥1,900. From Goryōkaku Station, a taxi to Goryokaku Tower takes about 3 minutes and costs between ¥1,400 and ¥1,800. Taxi stands are readily available at both stations.
-
Walking
From Goryokaku Koen-mae tram stop, walking to Goryokaku Tower takes approximately 15 minutes. From Goryōkaku Station, the walk is about 30 minutes. Follow the main roads, and Goryokaku Tower will become visible as you approach Goryokaku Park.
