Question 1

How do I get there?

Accepted Answer

It is about a 10-minute walk from Goryokaku Kouen-mae tram stop on the Hakodate City Tram. From Hakodate Station, it is about 20 minutes by bus or about 30 minutes by tram. By car, there is no dedicated parking lot; please use the adjacent Hakodate City Art Hall parking lot or Hakodate City Goryokaku Sightseeing parking lot.

Question 2

What is the Goryoku Hoshi no Yume illumination event?

Accepted Answer

It is a winter illumination event held around December to February. From around sunset, the white star-shaped fortress of Goryokaku is lit up, creating a fantastic nighttime view. During this period, opening hours are extended until 19:00.

Question 3

Can I buy souvenirs?

Accepted Answer

The shop inside the tower sells original goods related to Goryokaku, the Hakodate War, the Shinsumi, and Hijikata Toshizō, as well as Hakodate specialty cakes.

Question 4

Can pets enter?

Accepted Answer

Pets are not allowed inside. Service dogs (guide dogs, mobility assistance dogs, and hearing dogs) are permitted.

Question 5

What are the opening hours and closure days?

Accepted Answer

April 21 to October 20: 8:00–19:00. October 21 to April 20: 9:00–18:00. During the winter "Goryoku Hoshi no Yume Illumination" period, hours are extended until 19:00. Open year-round with no closure days.

Question 6

What is the admission fee for Goryokaku Tower?

Accepted Answer

Adults ¥1,000, junior and senior high school students ¥750, elementary school students ¥500, children under elementary school age free. Credit cards and electronic money are accepted, but during busy times such as Golden Week, payment may be cash only.

Question 7

When are the cherry blossoms in bloom? Is it crowded?

Accepted Answer

Cherry blossoms are typically in bloom from late April to early May. About 1,500 Somei Yoshino and other cherry trees bloom in Goryōkaku Park, and the view from the observation deck is spectacular. This period is especially crowded, so visiting right after opening or in the late afternoon is recommended.

Question 8

What kind of exhibits are inside?

Accepted Answer

On the observation deck level 2, there are graphic displays and 16 diorama scenes that explain the history of Goryokaku and the Hakodate War in an easy-to-understand way. Also, inside the atrium is a statue of Hijikata Toshizō, who went from Vice-Commander of the Shinsumi to Military Magistrate of the former Bakufu forces.

Question 9

Can I see Goryokaku's star shape from the observation deck?

Accepted Answer

Yes. From the observation deck at 90 meters above ground, you can see the entire star shape of Goryokaku from above. While the shape is difficult to make out when walking at ground level, from the top of the tower you can clearly see the fortress's moat and earthwork structure, as well as the layout of the Hakodate Magistrate's Office.

Question 10

Can I visit Goryokaku Park at the same time?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The tower is adjacent to Goryokaku Park, and you can walk around the park after viewing the tower. Inside the park there is a restored Hakodate Magistrate's Office building. Allow approximately 2 hours for the tower and park combined.

Question 11

Is there parking?

Accepted Answer

The tower does not have its own parking lot. Please use the "Hakodate City Art Hall parking lot" across from the tower or the "Hakodate City Goryōkaku Sightseeing Parking lot" (paid) on the west side of Goryōkaku Park.

Question 12

What is the address?

Accepted Answer

Hokkaido Hakodate City Goryōkakuchō 43-9

Question 13

How do I get there?

Accepted Answer

About 10 minutes on foot from Goryōkaku Kōen-mae tram stop on the Hakodate Streetcar. About 20 minutes by bus or 30 minutes by tram from Hakodate Station. No dedicated parking (use nearby Hakodate City Art Hall parking lot, etc.).

Question 14

Is there parking?

Accepted Answer

We do not have parking available.

Question 15

What is the admission fee?

Accepted Answer

Adults ¥1,000, junior and senior high school students ¥750, elementary school students ¥500, children under elementary school age free.

Question 16

What are your hours?

Accepted Answer

April 21–October 20: 8:00–19:00 / October 21–April 20: 9:00–18:00 (until 19:00 during the Goryō Star Dream illumination period)

Question 17

When is it closed?

Accepted Answer

Open year-round with no closure days.

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