Step back into one of the most dramatic chapters of Japan’s modern history on this guided tour of Goryokaku and the Goryokaku Tower in Hakodate. Built in the 19th century as Japan’s first Western-style star fort, Goryokaku played a decisive role during the turbulent final years of the Tokugawa shogunate.

Its unique five-pointed star shape, inspired by European military design, was constructed to strengthen coastal defense and symbolize Japan’s modernization, but it became forever remembered as the stage of the Hakodate War—the last battle of the Boshin War that marked the end of samurai rule.

Walk through the expansive grounds of Goryokaku Park today, and sense the echoes of history. At the entrance, learn about the fort’s construction and the significance of its half-moon bastions, designed to repel attackers with crossfire.

Pass through the site of the former guardhouses, and encounter the imposing Krupp and Blakely cannons that once thundered during the battle, tangible reminders of the clash between old and new Japan. In the heart of the fort stands the Hakodate Magistrate’s Office (Bugyōsho), painstakingly reconstructed using traditional methods and materials.

Enter this building to get a vivid glimpse into the administrative and cultural life of the late Edo period, when Hakodate was one of the first ports opened to foreign trade and new ideas transformed Japan. The architecture, interiors, and displays bring to life the authority and sophistication of this once-critical outpost of the shogunate.

After exploring the fort itself, continue with a visit to the Goryokaku Tower, a modern observation tower rising 107 meters beside the park. From its panoramic viewing deck, gaze down at the entire star-shaped fortress, appreciating its geometric perfection in a way unimaginable from ground level.

The view is breathtaking in every season: cherry blossoms in spring forming a pink outline around the star, lush greenery in summer, fiery colors in autumn, and pure white snow in winter. Exhibitions inside the tower further deepen your understanding of the Hakodate War and the transformation of Japan from a feudal society into a modern nation.

This tour is guided by a knowledgeable local expert who will bring these places to life with stories of samurai, battles, and cultural change. You will not only see famous sites but also understand why Goryokaku is considered a turning point in Japanese history.

To suit your preference, the tour offers two options: one begins directly at Goryokaku for those who wish to meet on site, while another starts at Hakodate Station, including a scenic ride on the city’s historic tram system to the fort. Both allow you to fully enjoy the experience without worrying about logistics, as your guide will handle all arrangements and provide insightful explanations along the way.