Hakodate Magistrate’s Office
Experience the Legacy of Japan’s Final Samurai Era
If you want to explore Hokkaido’s rich history, the Hakodate Magistrate’s Office (Hakodate Bugyosho) inside Goryokaku Park is a must-see. This government office was built by the Edo Shogunate in the late Edo period to oversee northern defense and foreign affairs. In 1864, it was moved from the foot of Mt. Hakodate to the center of the star-shaped fortress Goryokaku, becoming a key stage in Japan’s final samurai era.
After the Hakodate War, the original building was dismantled. In 2010, a faithful reconstruction was completed, reviving about one-third of the original structure. Visitors can step into the 72-tatami Grand Hall and experience the atmosphere of the time, gaining insight into the politics and culture of the late Edo period.
Inside, exhibits and videos clearly introduce the history of Goryokaku and Hakodate. Walking through the restored corridors feels like stepping back to the age of the samurai. Discover the drama and culture of Japan’s final shogunate and experience a unique side of Hokkaido tourism at the Hakodate Magistrate’s Office.
- * Please note that the text shown on this page includes machine translations.
- Nearest airports
General Information
- Postal code
- 〒040-0001
- Address
- 北海道函館市五稜郭町44-3
- Telephone Number
- 0138-51-2864
- Open
- April-October: 9:00-18:00
November-March: 9:00-17:00
January 2-3: 9:00-15:00
Final admission is 15 minutes before closing.
The rest area "Itakura Yanagino" is open from 10:00-17:00.
Please check the website for special openings or temporary closures. - Closed
- December 31-January 1 (and other temporary closures for facility inspections)
- Prices
- Paid
Free for preschool children - Car Park
- None
Paid parking available nearby - Directions
- ●On foot: About 15 minutes from Goryokaku Koen-mae tram stop
●By car: About 15 minutes from JR Hakodate Station - Website
* Information on facilities is subject to change. Please check each official website for the latest information.
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