Goryokaku Park is one of Hakodate's most famous spring sightseeing spots.
The star-shaped castle and the approximately 1,500 to 1,600 cherry trees blooming all around it are so beautiful that you will never forget them once you see them.

In this article, we will introduce you to useful information such as the charm of Goryokaku's cherry blossoms, the best time to see them, surrounding spots, and how to get there. By reading this, you should be able to enjoy your spring trip to Goryokaku without any hesitation.

What is it about the cherry blossoms at Goryokaku that attracts so many people?

A stunning contrast between the star-shaped castle and the cherry blossoms

Goryokaku was built in 1866 (Keio 2) and is Japan's first fully-fledged Western-style castle. Its pentagonal bastion structure, which is said to have been designed with reference to French castle construction books, is a very rare design for a Japanese castle.

Goryokaku is the only place in Japan where you can see this star-shaped fortress and about 1,600 cherry trees, mainly Somei-Yoshino, at the same time. The collaboration between the pink flowers reflected in the moat and the castle is as beautiful as a painting, attracting many tourists every year.

A special historic site where you can feel the history of the end of the Edo period

Goryokaku is a fortress built by the Edo Shogunate for the purpose of defense and governance of Ezochi (present-day Hokkaido), and is also known as the site of the Boshin War at the end of the Edo period. Enomoto Takeaki and Hijikata Toshizo led the old Shogunate forces in battle against the new government forces, and were defeated here, bringing the end of the Boshin War.

It is currently designated as a special national historic site, and is a valuable area that strongly retains the atmosphere of the end of the Edo period, with the restoration of the Hakodate Magistrate's Office and other attractions. One of the great attractions of Goryokaku is that you can feel the dramatic historical romance hidden behind the gorgeous flower scenery.

The most beautiful cherry blossom spots at Goryokaku

Cherry blossom trees lining the moat

Goryokaku is characterised by the moat that surrounds it. Cherry trees are planted along this moat, so as you walk along the trail you can see the cherry blossoms reflecting on the water on one side and the stone walls and earthworks on the other. On a fine day, the sky and cherry blossoms are reflected on the water, creating a double flower view. Take a leisurely stroll along the moat and find your favourite photo spot.

Spectacular panoramic view from Goryokaku Tower

Goryokaku Tower, with a height of 107m, is the perfect observation spot for a panoramic view of Goryokaku. When you reach the observation deck, you can enjoy a rare view that can't be seen anywhere else, where the star-shaped castle and pale pink cherry blossoms come together. What's more, you can see Mt. Hakodate, the city, and even the Tsugaru Strait, and the 360-degree panorama is truly magnificent. There is also a cafe space on the first observation floor, so you can spend a luxurious time taking a break while looking out at the cherry blossoms, the sea, and the cityscape of Hakodate.

When is the best time to enjoy the cherry blossoms at Goryokaku?

Flowering period and best viewing time

Hakodate's cherry blossoms tend to bloom in mid-April, slightly later than in Honshu, and reach full bloom towards the end of April. Goryokaku also reaches its peak around the same time, and is flooded with people from late April to early May. This often coincides with Golden Week, so if you want to avoid the crowds, we recommend going at times when there are fewer people, such as early in the morning on a weekday.

Also, in recent years, due to changes in the weather, the flowering period is more likely to change, so be sure to check the weather forecast and information on the Hakodate City official website frequently when making your plans.

Castle and cherry blossoms floating in the dark night

When the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, they are lit up at night from sunset until around 10:00 p.m. In stark contrast to the refreshing charm of the cherry blossoms during the day, the castle and flowers shining in the dark create a fantastical atmosphere, perfect for cherry blossom viewing for adults. The sight of the star-shaped bastion illuminated in a faint light is a beauty that is hard to put into words.

During the illumination period, the Goryokaku Cherry Blossom Festival is held, with lanterns and lights adorning the walking paths, and there are lively stalls and events, so you can enjoy Hakodate cuisine while admiring the cherry blossoms.

Enjoy the cherry blossoms around Goryokaku

Hakodate Magistrate's Office: A taste of the end of the Edo period

The restored Hakodate Magistrate's Office in the center of Goryokaku is a spot that strongly evokes the atmosphere of the end of the Edo period. The wooden building of the Magistrate's Office is well worth seeing, and during cherry blossom season, the area around the building is bathed in pink. History buffs will enjoy a stroll through the area, feeling like they've traveled back in time, while thinking about famous figures such as Hijikata Toshizo and Enomoto Takeaki. We also recommend taking your time to look around the exhibits inside the building and learning about the origins of Goryokaku and the history of the end of the Edo period.

Former Hakodate Ward Public Hall and Mount Hakodate

If you move a little further from Goryokaku, you can easily reach tourist spots such as the Old Hakodate Ward Public Hall, a beautiful piece of Western-style architecture from the Meiji era, and Mount Hakodate, famous for its night view. The appeal of spring in Hakodate is that you can enjoy it to the fullest, not just viewing the cherry blossoms, but also strolling through the exotic streets that are characteristic of Hakodate and taking in the spectacular views overlooking the harbor. If you have time, try using the city tram or bus to get around the city.

Tips for enjoying the cherry blossoms at Goryokaku even more!

Recommended photo spots for social media

Goryokaku Tower Observation Deck: Capture the exquisite contrast between the star-shaped castle and the cherry blossoms from above. Especially during twilight, when the lights come on from dusk, you can take beautiful photos of the sky changing color by the minute.

Walking path along the moat: The cherry blossoms reflected on the water's surface are magnificent, and on a clear day, the sky makes it even more photogenic. If you take a photo from the bridge with the castle in the background, you can capture the flowers, stone walls, and earthworks together.

Hakodate Magistrate's Office: The contrast between the gorgeous cherry blossoms and the stately restored magistrate's office building is striking. This is a great place to take photos that capture the Japanese atmosphere, so it's also recommended for those wearing kimonos or traditional Japanese clothing.

Tips to avoid crowds

Early morning on a weekday: If you avoid Golden Week and other long weekends, and if possible, visit on a weekday just after the gates open, you can enjoy the cherry blossoms at a relatively leisurely pace.

Using public transportation: Goryokaku Park does not have a dedicated parking lot. Paid parking lots in the area tend to fill up quickly, so it is best to use the city tram or bus for smooth access.

Immediately after the illuminations begin: Nighttime viewing will be crowded, but if you arrive at the site just as the illuminations begin, you will have a better chance of securing a popular photo spot.

Access information and admission fees

Address: 44 Goryokakucho, Hakodate City, Hokkaido

access:

・City tram: Get off at "Goryokaku Park" stop, then walk for about 18 minutes ・Bus: Get off at "Goryokaku Park Entrance" on the Hakodate bus, then walk for about 7 minutes ・From Hakodate Airport: You can use the Goryokaku Tower Trappistine shuttle bus ・Car: There is no parking lot for the park. Please use the paid parking lots in the area (e.g. Times Hakodate Goryokaku Park, 8:00-22:00, 200 yen for 60 minutes, maximum fee 800 yen for 24 hours, etc.)

Goryokaku Tower:

・Admission fee (general admission): 1,000 yen for adults, 750 yen for middle and high school students, 500 yen for elementary school students

*Prices will be revised from April 2025.
For more information, please see here: https://www.goryokaku-tower.co.jp/eventtopics/20241001-9684/

Admission to Goryokaku Park is generally free, except for the Hakodate Magistrate's Office. To visit the Hakodate Magistrate's Office, an admission fee of 500 yen for adults (250 yen for high school students and students) is required. Times and fees may change depending on the season and events, so be sure to check the official website or tourist information center for the latest information.

summary

In this article, we thoroughly explain the charms of Goryokaku's cherry blossoms, the best time to see them, nearby spots, and access information.

A trip to Hakodate in the spring is an exceptional experience, as it allows you to see the star-shaped castle and pink cherry blossoms with your very own eyes. From the fantastical cherry blossoms at night, the historic Hakodate Magistrate's Office, to the beautiful panorama overlooking from the tower, Goryokaku is sure to be a memorable cherry blossom viewing spot that you will never forget.

If someone asks you, "I'm visiting Hakodate during the cherry blossom season, where would you recommend?" you'll want to answer without hesitation, "Go to Goryokaku!" - such a magnificent view awaits you. Please use this article as a reference and visit Goryokaku Park in the spring.