One Panoramic View of the Star-Shaped Fortress from the 90-Meter-High Observation Deck, Pre-Visit History Study from End-of-Edo Period Exhibits
About this spot
An observation tower 107 meters tall standing adjacent to Goryokaku, with an observation deck at 90 meters that allows you to take in the star-shaped fortress in its entirety from above. The moment when the "star shape" seen in textbooks and photographs spreads out below is a breathtaking experience that elicits involuntary exclamations from both adults and children. The observation deck features the "Goryokaku History Corridor," which explains the history of Goryokaku through models and dioramas, allowing you to familiarize yourself with the stories of the Boshin War and Hijikata Toshizo as you prepare to explore the park. The see-through floor with glass panels provides a thrilling experience and is hugely popular with children. On clear days, you can see all the way to Hakodate Mountain, Tsugaru Strait, and the Yokotsu Mountain Range—a grand panorama befitting the start of Hakodate sightseeing.
Tips
It's about a 15-minute walk from Goryokaku Park Station on the streetcar; by car, nearby paid parking lots such as Hakodate Goryokaku Sightseeing Parking Lot are convenient. The ticket counter can get crowded during peak tourist season during daytime hours, so visiting first thing in the morning right after opening is ideal. The observation deck is air-conditioned, so even in summer, bringing a light jacket is reassuring.
Best time to visit
Approximately 1 hour. Early morning hours are the quietest, and the star shape looks beautiful in morning light.
Access & map
〒040-0001 Hokkaido, Hakodate City, Goryokaku-cho 43-9
Model course featuring this spot
Hakodate Goryokaku Tower and Hakodate Magistrate's Office: Historical Exploration
Hokkaido
Explore features & model courses
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