Goryokaku Tower - Hokkaido

Goryokaku Tower (五稜郭タワー) is probably one of the most popular observatory towers in Hokkaido. It is also one of the most visited places in the city. It is located at 43-9 Goryokakucho, in Hakodate City in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan.

五稜郭タワー
Goryokaku Tower

Goryokaku Tower Details

Late WINTER

Standing tall in Hakodate, the Goryokaku Tower is a modern marvel with deep historical roots. Originally constructed in 1964, the second-generation tower opened on April 1, 2006, and rises 107 meters above the ground. This iconic landmark offers breathtaking views and a unique way to explore the history and charm of the region.

Goryokaku Tower - Hakodate City, Hokkaido Prefecture
Goryokaku Tower - Hakodate City, Hokkaido Prefecture

Panoramic Views from the Observation Deck

Bronze Statue of Toshizo Hijikata
Bronze Statue of Toshizo Hijikata

Goryokaku Tower panoramic views

Goryokaku Tower panoramic views

Goryokaku Tower panoramic views
A diorama of Goryokaku during thee Meiji Era

Goryokaku
Goryokaku today, as seen from the Goryokaku Tower Observation Deck

Hakodate Magistrate's Office
Only the Hakodate Magistrate's Office remains today

The observation floors, located 86 and 90 meters above ground, provide stunning panoramic views of Hakodate. Visitors can marvel at the star-shaped Goryokaku Fort, a designated special historic site, and enjoy sweeping vistas of Mt. Hakodate, the Tsugaru Strait, and the Yokotsu mountain range. The See-Through Floor, featuring reinforced glass panels, adds a thrilling experience as you look straight down to the ground below.

A Journey Through History

Goryokaku Tower

A Journey Through History

Goryokaku Tower

Goryokaku Tower isn’t just about views; it’s also a gateway to understanding the rich history of the region. The Goryokaku History Corridor, located on the second observation floor, offers exhibits detailing the fascinating story of Goryokaku Fort and its role in Japan's past.

Exploring the Tower’s Facilities

Hakodate City's manhole cover
One of the Hakodate City's colored manhole covers is installed near the main entrance of Goryokaku Tower

Goryokaku Tower
Goryokaku Tower

Goryokaku Tower
The map of the district near Goryokaku

Welcome to Goryokaku Tower
Welcome to Goryokaku Tower

The tower is designed to cater to visitors of all interests, with features that enhance its appeal:

Goryokaku Tower
Atrium

  • Atrium: A serene, glass-walled space filled with greenery and natural light, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring.
1st floor - Ticketing Booth
1st floor - Ticketing Booth

1st floor - Gift shop
1st floor - Gift shop

1st floor - Gift shop
This Goryokaku-shaped anpan is a nice omiyage to give your friends

  • 1st Floor: Home to the ticket counter and a gift shop stocked with unique, locally inspired souvenirs.

  • 2nd Floor: A hub for culinary delights, featuring a Japanese restaurant serving seasonal dishes, a retro-modern curry restaurant, and a gelato shop using premium Hokkaido milk. This floor also houses a gallery showcasing the works of Ueki Soetsu, a celebrated local artist.

Observation Floor 1
Observation Floor 1

Observation Floor 1 - Glass floor
Observation Floor 1 - Glass floor

  • Observation Floor 1: Ideal for relaxing while taking in the star-shaped fort. A shop and café here serve refreshments and exclusive goods.
Observation Floor 2 (90 meters above ground)
Observation Floor 2 (90 meters above ground)

Goryokaku as seen from the Observation Floor 2
Goryokaku as seen from the Observation Floor 2

  • Observation Floor 2 (90 meters above ground) - This features the Goryokaku Historical Corridor, an exhibition space dedicated to the history of Goryokaku. The 16-scene diorama "Memorial Pole" allows you to witness the turbulent history of Goryokaku and the drama of the people who lived during that time. This floor also offers a breathtaking view of the special historic site, making it a perfect spot to immerse yourself in the story and scenery of this iconic landmark.

Team Nicerio visits Goryokaku Tower

Team Nicerio visits Goryokaku Tower

Team Nicerio visits Goryokaku Tower

Team Nicerio visits Goryokaku Tower

Team Nicerio visits Goryokaku Tower

Team Nicerio visits Goryokaku Tower

My family and I visited Goryokaku Tower last April 2, 2023, during the 2nd day of our 3-day Birthday Road Trip. It was my 517th day here in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme. This was the first destination that we visited in Hakodate City. We visited during late winter, so we weren’t able to see the Sakura blossoms that famously cover the area, particularly the star-shaped Goryokaku below.  We would come back here next year and experience Hanami in this beautiful place.

Goryokaku Tower Admission Fee:

Visiting the Atrium and the first floor of Goryokaku Tower is completely FREE. However, access to the Observation Floors requires an entrance fee:

  • Adults: 1,200 yen
  • Junior and Senior High School Students: 900 yen
  • Elementary School Students: 600 yen
  • Children under elementary school age: FREE
  • PWDs: Present your disability certificate to avail of a discounted price.

Parking Tip: Goryokaku Tower does not have a dedicated parking lot for private or rental vehicles. Visitors can use nearby paid parking facilities such as the Hakodate City Arts Hall Parking Lot or the Hakodate City Goryokaku Tourist Parking Lot.

Goryokaku Tower Operating Hours

Goryokaku Tower is open year-round from 9 AM to 6 PM. Ticket sales end at 5:50 PM.

Why Visit Goryokaku Tower?

Goryokaku Tower combines history, culture, and stunning views in one remarkable destination. Whether you’re soaking in the scenery, learning about Hakodate’s heritage, or enjoying a delicious meal, this tower promises an unforgettable experience.

Make Goryokaku Tower a highlight of your Hakodate itinerary and explore a landmark that truly captures the essence of Hokkaido.

Getting to Goryokaku Tower

 

There are multiple ways to reach Goryokaku Tower, but here’s the route I’m familiar with:

From Hakodate Station, head to the Hakodate Station Mae bus stop and take the Hakodate bus No. 610 bound for Esashi Terminal. Get off at the Keisatsusho-mae bus stop, then walk approximately 5 minutes to reach Goryokaku Tower.

Travel time: 22 minutes

Fare: 280 yen

Ratings

Crowd

Cleanliness

Overall rating


Location: 43-9 Goryōkakuchō, Hakodate, Hokkaido 040-0001, Japan

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