Goryokaku Tower
Goryokaku Tower in Hakodate, Hokkaido, is an observation tower offering panoramic views of the star-shaped Goryokaku Fort and the surrounding city. Visitors can enjoy historical exhibits and a café at the top.
Goryokaku Tower is a 107-meter observation tower located in Hakodate, Hokkaido, Japan.
It overlooks the historical Goryokaku Fort, Japan’s first Western-style fortress, built in the late Edo Period to defend against Western imperialism.
The fort is notable for its unique star shape, designed for strategic defense and efficient cannon placement.
After its military significance waned, it was converted into a public park, and the tower was added in 2006 to provide visitors with aerial views of the site and the city beyond.
The tower is special because it offers a rare aerial perspective of a star-shaped fort, a design uncommon in Japan.
From its observation decks, visitors can appreciate the strategic beauty of Goryokaku Fort’s design and enjoy sweeping views of Hakodate and its natural surroundings.
The tower also serves as a historical landmark, providing educational exhibits on the fort’s significance and the broader history of Hokkaido.
Goryokaku Tower tickets and entrance fees
Access to Goryokaku Tower involves an entrance fee, which is approximately 900 yen ($6 USD) for adults, 680 yen ($4.56 USD) for high school students, 450 yen ($3 USD) for children (elementary and junior high), and free for preschoolers.
Prices may vary for special exhibitions or events. The tower also offers group discounts and has a gift shop and café where visitors can purchase souvenirs and refreshments.
Is Goryokaku Tower worth visiting?
Goryokaku Tower is worth visiting for its unique historical significance and natural beauty blend. The opportunity to view a star-shaped fort from above is rare and provides insight into Japan’s feudal past and its encounters with Western influences.
The tower’s educational exhibits add depth to the visit, making it appealing for history enthusiasts, while the panoramic views captivate nature lovers and photographers alike.
How to get to Goryokaku Tower
To get to Goryokaku Tower, visitors can take a tram from JR Hakodate Station to the Goryokaku-dori Station, which takes about 10 minutes.
From there, it’s a 15-minute walk to the tower. Alternatively, the Hakodate City Bus offers direct access to Goryokaku Tower from the station.
Parking is available on-site for those driving. The tower’s location within Goryokaku Park makes it easily accessible and a prominent feature in a visit to Hakodate.
Things to do in Goryokaku Tower
Explore the Star-Shaped Fortress
Walk the perimeter of Goryokaku’s unique star-shaped design, experiencing the strategic military architecture firsthand.
Cherry Blossom Viewing (Hanami)
Enjoy the breathtaking beauty of over 1,600 cherry trees in full bloom during spring, a perfect setting for picnics and photo sessions.
Visit Goryokaku Tower
Ascend Goryokaku Tower to witness stunning aerial views of the star-shaped fortress and surrounding cityscape. The tower also features exhibits on the fort’s history.
Historical Reenactment Shows
Attend one of the seasonal historical reenactment shows, offering a glimpse into the samurai and military life during the Bakumatsu period.
Guided History Tours
Participate in a guided tour to learn in-depth about the fort’s construction, its significance during the Boshin War, and its transformation into a public park.
Ice Skating in Winter
Experience ice skating within the historical surroundings of Goryokaku Park during the winter months, a unique blend of recreation and history.
Photography at Hakodate Magistrate’s Office
Capture the beautifully reconstructed Hakodate Magistrate’s Office, a building that showcases late Edo Period governmental architecture.
Seasonal Festivals
Join in the celebrations of various seasonal festivals held in Goryokaku Park, including cherry blossom festivals in spring and snow festivals in winter.
Bird Watching
With its lush greenery and water moats, Goryokaku attracts a variety of bird species, making it an ideal spot for bird watching enthusiasts.
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