Even if you don't go to Goryokaku Park, you should definitely climb the tower. The tower is a great place to see the entire Goryokaku area, and panels that carefully summarize the history of Goryokaku are on display. There are also 16 scenes that even children can understand, with models and four-frame cartoon explanations, making it an enjoyable experience for both parents and children. Tickets can be purchased through a travel website, and I recommend purchasing tickets in advance; even at 2:00 p.m. on a Saturday in March, there was a 15-minute line to purchase tickets.
Goryokaku Tower offers a fantastic bird’s-eye view of the iconic star-shaped fort below—truly a sight to behold, especially on a clear day. The glass observation deck is spacious and well-designed, providing 360° views of Hakodate and beyond.
Informative displays share the history of the fort and the area, making it both educational and visually impressive. The tower is easily accessible, with lifts and a small gift shop at the base.
A brief but worthwhile stop for anyone visiting Hakodate—charming, unique, and beautifully presented.
Fascinating views. Pay attention counter to take the lift up to the viewing floor. Once you are there, you have 4 directions to trigger happy with your camera. Go one floor down and find the glass see through floor for another unique view. At level 2, get some gelato for a stop. Lastly, back to level if you fancy some souvenirs. Paid parking just in front of the tower.
While the increased entrance fee (now JPY1200, up from JPY1000, likely due to its popularity) might give pause, the incredible panoramic views of Hakodate from the top are absolutely worth it. For a truly magical experience, aim to ascend after 4 or 5 PM to witness the renowned Hakodate sunset paint the cityscape. Alternatively, visiting earlier offers its own reward: the dramatic interplay of sunlight and water creates truly picture-worthy moments.
Amazing views of the fort and Hakodate from the tower.
Dioramas of Hakodate history up the top and a glass floor for the brave.
We missed Cherry Blossom season by about a week, but would be absolutely beautiful.
Just a short walk over to the Magistrate House, with some interesting history and lovely gardens.
