What to know
Fort Goryokaku (五稜郭, Goryōkaku) is a massive, star-shaped Western-style fortress built in the final years of the Edo Period (1603–1868) to defend Hakodate against Western imperialist threats. Just a few years later, it became the stage for a civil war between shogunate forces and the superior troops of the newly established Meiji government.
After losing its military importance, the fort was converted into a public park in the 1910s. Over a thousand cherry trees were planted along its moats, making it one of Hokkaido's top cherry blossom spots. The peak bloom typically occurs around early May.
At the center of the fort stands the Former Magistrate Office, where shogunate officials once administered the island of Hokkaido. The original building was demolished after the shogunate fell in 1871, but the city meticulously reconstructed part of the complex and opened it to the public in 2010.
For a bird's-eye view of the vast fortress, head to the observation deck of the nearby Goryokaku Tower. This 107-meter-tall tower replaced its 60-meter predecessor in 2006.
From Hakodate Station, take the tram to "Goryokaku Koen-mae" (五稜郭公園前, 15 minutes, 230 yen one way), then walk another ten minutes to the fortress.
Visitor information
Practical details to check before planning this stop.
- Hours
- 9:00 to 18:00
- Closed
- No closing days
- Admission
- 1200 yen (~$7.68)
- English name
- Goryokaku Tower
- Original name
- Fort Goryokaku
Verify details before visiting. Currency conversion is indicative and may vary over time.