Special Historic Site Goryokaku Fort
Bakumatsu battlefield, Hokkaido's only Special Historic Site
Hokkaido's only nationally designated Special Historic Site and one of only two star-shaped fortresses existing in Japan.
Designed with hints from 16th-century European fortified cities, Goryokaku's five corners called bastions draw a beautiful star shape. The vast grounds of about 125,000 square meters, about three times Tokyo Dome, show seasonal colors with lush greenery, and clear water fills the moat surrounded by stone walls. In spring, about 1,600 cherry trees bloom magnificently, with petals dancing in the wind creating an overwhelming sight. From the observation deck of the adjacent Goryokaku Tower, you can see the entire perfect star shape, gasping at its geometric beauty.
In the 1868 Hakodate War, forces of the former shogunate led by Takeaki Enomoto clashed violently with new government forces, becoming the tragic stage where Toshizo Hijikata, vice-commander of the Shinsengumi, fell. Walking within the fortress, you feel the weight of history carved in the cobblestones underfoot, and the turbulence of the Bakumatsu period revives in the silence. Selected as Hokkaido Heritage in 1952, it continues to fascinate many as a historical heritage representing Hakodate.
- * Please note that the text shown on this page includes machine translations.
- Category
- With friends
- Historic sites, castles, culture properties, architecture
- History, culture, art
- Girls' trip
- Couple
- Family
- Travel style
- Travel Inspiration
- Adventure Travel
- Nearest airports
General Information
- Address
- 北海道函館市五稜郭町44
- Telephone Number
- 0138-21-3456（Hakodate Board of Education, Cultural Properties Division）
- Open
- [Park admission] (Apr.-Oct.) 5:00-19:00, (Nov.-Mar.) 5:00-18:00
- Prices
- Free (Hakodate Magistrate's Office requires an admission fee)
- Car Park
- None (Use paid parking lot)
- 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.
