Hakodate: Goryokaku Star Fort & Tower Guided History Tour

Hakodate , Japan

Hakodate: Goryokaku Star Fort & Tower Guided History Tour

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About this experience

Explore Japan’s rich history on this guided tour of Goryokaku, Japan’s first Western-style star fort, and the Goryokaku Tower in Hakodate. Discover the significance of the fort during the Boshin War and witness the unique architecture that symbolizes Japan’s modernization. Stroll through Goryokaku Park, encounter historical artifacts like the Krupp and Blakely cannons, and visit the reconstructed Hakodate Magistrate’s Office. The tour culminates with a visit to the Goryokaku Tower, where stunning panoramic views await. Choose from two options based on your convenience, with everything arranged for you to enjoy a hassle-free experience.

- Guided exploration of Goryokaku and Goryokaku Tower
- Insightful commentary from a knowledgeable local expert
- Two tour options: meet at Goryokaku or start at Hakodate Station
- Panoramic views from the tower and rich historical context included

Available options

To Hakodate Station (G-447)

To Hakodate Station (G-447)<br/>Starting point:<br/>Hakodate City Tourist Information Center, Japan, 040-0063 Hokkaido, Hakodate, Wakamatsuchō, 12１３ＪＲ函館駅１階

Goryokaku Meeting (G-446)

Goryokaku Meeting (G-446)<br/>Starting point:<br/>7-Eleven Hakodate Goryokaku Park, 30-1 Goryōkakuchō, Hakodate, Hokkaido 040-0001, Japan

What's included

Stories and insights from a knowledgeable local guide

Guided tour of Goryokaku and Goryokaku Tower

Access to Goryokaku Tower observation deck

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Goryokaku is Japan’s first Western-style star fort, built in the 19th century to defend Hakodate. Its five-pointed design symbolized Japan’s modernization and later became the stage of the Hakodate War, the last battle of the Boshin War. Today, it is a park where visitors can walk the grounds, see historical cannons, and admire cherry blossoms surrounding the star-shaped fortress each spring.

At the heart of the fort lies the reconstructed Hakodate Magistrate’s Office, once the regional government headquarters of the shogunate. Rebuilt using traditional techniques, it offers a glimpse into the politics, culture, and architecture of the late Edo period. Inside, visitors can see administrative chambers, exhibits on daily life, and learn how Hakodate played a key role in Japan’s opening to the world.

Stop 3

The Goryokaku Tower, standing 107 meters tall, offers a spectacular bird’s-eye view of the entire star-shaped fort. From the observation deck, you can appreciate the geometric beauty of Goryokaku and enjoy seasonal scenery—from cherry blossoms to snowy landscapes. Exhibits inside explain the fort’s history and the Hakodate War, making the tower the perfect complement to a walk through the park.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Transportation to the meeting point

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

3 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

The meeting point is in front of the Hakodate Tourist Information Center. Your guide will be waiting with a yellow sign. Please refer to the map for details.

About Hakodate

Hakodate is a vibrant port city in Hokkaido, renowned for its stunning panoramic views, historic sites, and delicious seafood. Its unique blend of Japanese and Western influences, combined with breathtaking natural scenery, makes it a must-visit destination in northern Japan.

Top Attractions

Mount Hakodate

A scenic mountain offering breathtaking panoramic views of Hakodate and the Tsugaru Strait. Accessible by ropeway or hiking.

Nature 1-2 hours ¥900 (ropeway)

Goryokaku Fort

A star-shaped fort built in the 19th century, now a popular cherry blossom viewing spot and historical landmark.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (¥460 for museum entry)

Hakodate Morning Market

A bustling market offering fresh seafood, local produce, and traditional snacks. A must-visit for food lovers.

Cultural 1-2 hours Varies

Hakodate Old Public Hall of Welfare

A historic building showcasing the architectural style of the early 20th century. Now a museum with exhibits on Hakodate's history.

Historical 1 hour ¥500

Hakodate Central Park

A beautiful park with walking trails, gardens, and seasonal flowers. A great spot for a leisurely stroll.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kaisendon

A seafood bowl with a variety of fresh seafood, including crab, squid, and scallops, served over rice.

Lunch Contains seafood

Ika no Shiokara

A traditional dish made from fermented squid guts, often served with rice or as a topping for noodles.

Snack Contains seafood

Hakodate Ramen

A local variety of ramen with a rich, miso-based broth and topped with local ingredients like butter and corn.

Dinner Contains gluten

Butadon

A rice bowl topped with grilled pork belly, a popular dish in Hokkaido.

Dinner Contains pork

Popular Activities

Skiing at Esan Ski Resort Hiking in Onuma Park Onsen (hot spring) visits Picnicking in Hakodate Central Park Exploring Goryokaku Fort Visiting the Hakodate Old Public Hall of Welfare Swimming at Kunimi Beach Boat tours in Hakodate Port

Best Time to Visit

June to August (summer), December to February (winter)

Summer is ideal for outdoor activities and festivals, while winter offers skiing and hot springs. Both seasons attract the most tourists.

20-25°C (summer), -5 to 0°C (winter) 68-77°F (summer), 23-32°F (winter)

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

JST (GMT+9)

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Hakodate is a very safe city with a low crime rate. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is uncommon. However, as with any destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Use licensed taxis and ensure the meter is running.
• Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.

Getting there

By air

Hakodate Airport • 15 km from city center

By train

Hakodate Station

By bus

Hakodate Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Hakodate. The bus network is efficient and covers most of the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Motomachi Bay Area Goryokaku Daikanzaka

Day trips

Onuma Park

15 km from Hakodate • Half day to full day

A beautiful park with walking trails, gardens, and seasonal flowers. A great spot for a leisurely stroll and outdoor activities.

Kunimi Beach

20 km from Hakodate • Half day to full day

A scenic beach with clear waters and a beautiful coastline. A great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Esan Ski Resort

30 km from Hakodate • Full day

A popular ski resort offering a variety of slopes for all skill levels. A great spot for skiing and snowboarding in the winter.

Festivals

Hakodate Yukimatsuri (Snow Festival) • Early February Hakodate Port Festival • Mid-August Hakodate Cherry Blossom Festival • Late April to early May

Pro tips

Visit Mount Hakodate for the best sunset views in the city.
Try the local seafood bowls (kaisendon) at the Hakodate Morning Market.
Explore the historic streets of Motomachi and Daikanzaka for a glimpse into Hakodate's past.
Take a day trip to Onuma Park for beautiful nature and outdoor activities.
Visit during the cherry blossom season (late April to early May) for stunning views of the blossoms at Goryokaku Fort.