Goryokaku Tower in Hakodate: Views, Access, History, Tickets

Goryokaku Tower: A Must-Visit Hakodate Landmark

Photo by Pixta

Every Hakodate travel guide features the 107-meter Goryokaku Tower as an essential city landmark.

While its two observation decks—at 86 and 90 meters—offer breathtaking panoramic views, the tower is also a significant historic monument marking a pivotal moment in Hakodate's past.

In this article, we explore the tower's top features, the history behind the fort, and the on-site dining options that make it a must-visit destination.

• Table of Contents
• Goryokaku Tower: Ticket Information
• Access: How to Get to Goryokaku Tower in Hakodate
• The History of the Goryokaku Fort: Exhibits at the Observation Deck
• Dining at Goryokaku Tower
• Exclusive Souvenirs at Goryokaku Tower
• Goryokaku Tower Park

Goryokaku Tower: Ticket Information

Begin by purchasing your tickets on the first floor. Admission is 1,200 yen for adults, 900 yen for junior high and high school students, and 600 yen for elementary school students.

You can only purchase your tickets online in advance through platforms like Klook.

Once you have your ticket, take the elevator up to enjoy the views. The observation area consists of two levels: Observation Deck 1 (86 meters) and Observation Deck 2 (90 meters).

Access: How to Get to Goryokaku Tower in Hakodate

From JR Hakodate Station, take the city tram to the Goryokaku-Koen-Mae stop, followed by a 10-minute walk.

Alternatively, take the Hakodate Bus to the Goryokaku-Koen-Iriguchi stop, which is only a 5-minute walk.

Our advice: Do not get off at JR Goryokaku Station. Despite the name, it is quite far from the tower and is not recommended for visitors.

Goryokaku Tower Views: The Star-Shaped Fort Through the Seasons

Picture courtesy of Goryokaku Tower

Goryokaku is more than just a landmark; it is a vibrant venue for Hakodate’s seasonal traditions.

Visitors can enjoy cherry blossom viewing in the spring, historical reenactments during the summer’s Hakodate Goryokaku Festival, the Stair Climbing Challenge in autumn, and the magical Hoshi-no-Yume winter illumination.

Picture courtesy of Goryokaku Tower

During the spring cherry blossom season, the star-shaped fort is bathed in vibrant pink hues, making it the premier destination for locals to enjoy hanami picnics.

It is a rare and delightful sight to see groups gathered beneath the cherry trees, enjoying Jingisukan—a local Hokkaido specialty of grilled mutton—and creating a lively atmosphere unique to Hakodate.

Picture courtesy of Goryokaku Tower

During the winter months, the Hoshi-no-Yume (Dream of a Star) illumination transforms the landscape. The snow-covered, star-shaped fort is brilliantly lit against the night sky, making the white terrain sparkle like a giant, glowing star.

The illumination event usually runs from December 1 through the end of February, offering a magical atmosphere unique to Hakodate's coldest season.

Photo by Pixta

The star-shaped Goryokaku offers stunningly different views depending on the time of day and the changing seasons.

To get the most out of your visit, we recommend arriving just before sunset; this allows you to experience the fort in daylight, at twilight, and under the evening lights all in one trip.

The tower holds a special early opening every January 1, providing a unique opportunity for visitors to witness the first sunrise of the New Year from the observation deck.

The History of the Goryokaku Fort: Exhibits at the Observation Deck

Beyond the breathtaking views, the top of Goryokaku Tower offers a deep dive into the area's fascinating past.

The exhibits chronicle Goryokaku’s turbulent history across 16 detailed sections, beginning with Commodore Perry’s arrival in Hakodate—a pivotal event that ended Japan’s long era of national isolation.

This history is thoughtfully brought to life through dioramas, comics, and multilingual displays; with various language brochures also available, international visitors can easily follow the story without needing to know Japanese.

Picture courtesy of Goryokaku Tower

At the Observation Deck 2, you can examine a detailed restoration model of Goryokaku.

While the fort’s iconic star shape remains intact today, this model offers a fascinating comparison between its original design and its current appearance.

The most significant change dates back to 1914, when the site was designated as a public park and 1,600 cherry trees were planted. This historic transformation is the reason Goryokaku Park is blanketed in a stunning, soft pink landscape every year in early May.

Picture courtesy of Goryokaku Tower

Inside the tower, you will also find a prominent statue of Toshizo Hijikata, the legendary Vice-Commander of the Shinsengumi. A fixture in countless manga, TV dramas, and films, Hijikata remains an immensely popular historical figure to this day.

Known as the "Demon Vice-Commander," he is depicted here in a dashing Western suit with a riding whip at his waist.

This striking seated pose captures the essence of his final days in Hakodate, where he met his end during the Battle of Hakodate.

Both observation decks feature snack stands offering light refreshments and drinks, ensuring you can stay fueled and hydrated without ever having to pull your eyes away from the spectacular views.

Picture courtesy of Goryokaku Tower

If you aren't afraid of heights, you can challenge yourself by standing on the transparent glass floor.

This unique vantage point allows you to look straight down from the observation deck, taking in the dizzying view from the top of the tower all the way to the ground below.

Dining at Goryokaku Tower

The current Goryokaku Tower is actually the second generation, having opened in 2006 to replace the original 1964 structure.

While it remains in nearly the same location, the new design has doubled the viewing range.

The footprint of the original tower has since been transformed into a welcoming plaza and rest area where local citizens can gather and socialize.

Here, you can treat yourself to piping hot red bean croissants, sweet Hokkaido white and yellow corn, and rich soft-serve ice cream made with fresh milk from local ranches.

Depending on the season, you can even enjoy sweet Hokkaido cantaloupe. There is no greater bliss than savoring these regional delicacies while taking in the breathtaking views!

If these treats aren't enough to satisfy your cravings, head to the second floor, which features highly-rated local favorites like MILKISSIMO (Italian-style gelato) and the historic Gotoken—a Western-style restaurant famous for its legendary curry.

Exclusive Souvenirs at Goryokaku Tower

Having weathered the turbulent storms of Japanese history, Goryokaku offers a wide array of merchandise inspired by the heroes of the Shinsengumi.

These items are a major draw for both Shinsengumi enthusiasts and Reki-jo (history-loving women) alike. The selection is vast, featuring everything from phone charms and T-shirts to canvas bags and unique lifestyle goods.

These classic brown sugar bean paste buns come in vintage-style packaging featuring the portrait of Toshizo Hijikata.

You can also find cheese tarts branded with the Goryokaku Tower mascot, GOta-kun, and the Seikan-ha collection—a unique collaboration between Aomori and Hakodate. These original souvenirs are exclusive to the tower and cannot be found anywhere else.

Goryokaku Tower Park

Picture courtesy of Goryokaku Tower

If you have extra time, be sure to take a leisurely stroll through Goryokaku Park.

During the cherry blossom season in May, the park is illuminated for night viewing, transforming the landscape into a magical scene. Framed by the glowing evening blossoms, Goryokaku Tower takes on a truly romantic and unforgettable atmosphere.

Picture courtesy of Goryokaku Tower

For history buffs, a visit to the Hakodate Magistrate’s Office is an absolute must.

Meticulously reconstructed using traditional techniques, this landmark perfectly recreates the atmosphere of the late Shogunate era and the pivotal Meiji Restoration.

Enjoy Exploring the Goryokaku Tower

Goryokaku is a unique star-shaped fort, meticulously designed by Japan’s first generation of Western-educated scholars. With its seamless blend of traditional Japanese and Western military architecture, the site stands as a powerful symbol of the country’s transition into a new era.

A visit to Goryokaku Tower offers more than just breathtaking seasonal views and local delicacies; it provides a profound window into the history and culture of Hakodate.

Whether you are a nature lover or a history enthusiast, it is easy to see why this remains a top-recommended destination for every traveler.

Goryokaku Tower

43-9 Goryokaku-cho, Hakodate-shi, Hokkaido 040-0001

Goryokaku Tower is a 107-meter-tall observation tower in Hakodate, Hokkaido. Completed in 1988, it stands next to the special historic site of Goryokaku, the former site of a star-shaped fortress. From the tower, you can enjoy a beautiful 360-degree panoramic view of Hakodate city and Goryokaku Park. It also houses a historical museum, souvenir shop, and restaurant, making it a popular tourist spot in Hakodate. The scenery changes with the seasons, especially the cherry blossom season and snowy scenery, making it a spectacular sight.