HokkaidoTravel

The Edo Shogunate Administrative Office Reconstructed at the Center of Goryokaku, the Tatami Grand Hall is Magnificent

About this spot

The Hakodate Magistrate's Office standing at the center of Goryokaku is a building reconstructed using historical construction methods of the period, based on old photographs and archaeological surveys. It is an impressive wooden structure crowned with a drum tower on its roof, and the 72-tatami grand hall inside is particularly striking. Surrounded by the fragrance of tatami, as you explore the rooms where officials conducted business, recreated videos, and exhibits of excavated materials, the story of Hakodate during the opening period and the Boshin War comes into vivid three-dimensional relief. The building itself, which lavishly uses quality domestic timber in its pillars and fixtures, is a sight to behold—exploring fine details of craftsmanship such as nail covers and transoms together as a family is one of the joys of visiting. Combining the observation from the tower, exploration of the park, and this visit creates a complete picture of Goryokaku's history.

Tips

Located at the center of Goryokaku Park, you can visit directly from park exploration. Inside the building, you remove your shoes and change into slippers, so wearing shoes that are easy to remove and put on is convenient. The exhibits center on videos and models, making them easy for elementary school students to understand. During peak times, queues can form at the admission ticket counter, so visiting just before lunch is relatively smooth.