Hakodate Magistrate’s Office
A Reconstructed Government Office at Goryokaku
Reconstructed at the center of Goryokaku, the Hakodate Magistrate’s Office introduces the history of the shogunate’s final years and traditional building techniques.
The Hakodate Magistrate’s Office was relocated to the center of Goryokaku in 1864 as a base of the Tokugawa Shogunate for northern defense and foreign affairs. Dismantled in 1871 after the Hakodate War, the building was reconstructed in 2010 based on its former appearance. Today, about one-third of the government office is open to the public.
Inside, visitors can see traditional Japanese wooden building techniques, construction combining old and new timber, and the 72-tatami Grand Hall. Exhibits and video presentations based on archaeological excavation findings provide information on the structure of Goryokaku, the historical role of the office, and its reconstruction.
At the center of the Special Historic Site of Goryokaku, this reconstructed building offers an opportunity to learn about the administrative role of Tokugawa Shogunate facilities in the late Edo period and the wooden building techniques of the era. Visitors can also learn about the history, functions, and architectural features of 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
- 9:00-18:00 (April-October)
9:00-17:00 (November-March)
9:00-15:00 (January 2 - January 3)
*The final reception is 15 minutes in advance
*The resting place Itakura Yanagino is 10:00-17:00
*Please check the official website for special opening and temporary closing - 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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