Goryokaku
Hokkaido Region
Goryokaku is a star fort located in Hakodate, Hokkaido, Japan, completed in 1866 and designed by Takeda Ayasaburō, a scholar of Western studies. Its distinctive five-pointed star shape allowed for enhanced defense against cannon fire, reducing blind spots and increasing gun emplacements compared to traditional Japanese forts. Originally built by the Tokugawa shogunate to protect the Tsugaru Strait, it later became the headquarters of the short-lived Republic of Ezo during the Boshin War. The fort was the site of the final battle of the Boshin War in 1869, after which most buildings were demolished due to their association with the shogunate. In 1914, Goryokaku was transformed into a public park and declared a Special Historical Site in 1952. Today, it is renowned for its extensive cherry trees, making it a popular spot for hanami (cherry blossom viewing) in spring. Adjacent to the park is an observation tower offering panoramic views of the fort, Hakodate city, and Mount Hakodate, along with exhibitions about the fort's history and figures like Hijikata Toshizō. A partial reconstruction of the magistrate’s office completed in 2010 houses further historical exhibitions, linking visitors to the fort’s past as an administrative center. Goryokaku combines military architecture, historical depth, and natural beauty, making it a unique cultural landmark in northern Japan.
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Astuce: The best time to visit Goryokaku is during spring when cherry blossoms are in full bloom, usually in late April to early May. Visitors are encouraged to purchase tickets for the observation tower in advance, especially during peak cherry blossom season. Discounts may be available for groups, seniors, and students. The park is accessible year-round, but winter offers a unique view of the snow-covered star fort. Check opening hours on the official website before visiting for any seasonal changes or special events.
Faits intéressants
- •Goryokaku is the only star-shaped fort in Japan and one of the few in the world built in this style.
- •The fort was designed to minimize blind spots for cannon fire, a novel concept in Japanese military architecture at the time.
- •After the Boshin War, ice harvested from the fort's moat was sold commercially as "Goryokaku Ice" on Honshu.
- •The observation tower near the park offers a bird’s-eye view of the star-shaped layout, which is difficult to appreciate from ground level.
- •The magistrate's office reconstruction was based on extensive archaeological research and completed in 2010.
Histoire
Goryokaku was designed in 1855 by Takeda Ayasaburō, inspired by European star forts to defend against modern artillery.
Construction took nearly seven years, completing in 1866 just before the fall of the Tokugawa shogunate.
It served briefly as the administrative center of the Republic of Ezo during the Boshin War, where the final battle occurred in 1869.
After the war, most structures were dismantled, and the fort was repurposed as a military training ground.
In 1914, it was opened as a public park, and in 1952 it was designated a Special Historical Site.
A reconstruction of the magistrate’s office was completed in 2010 to preserve and present its historical importance.
Guide du lieu
Observation Tower2006
Built in 2006, the tower provides panoramic views of the entire star-shaped fort, the surrounding city of Hakodate, and Mount Hakodate. It also houses an exhibition about the fort's history and notable figures such as Hijikata Toshizō, a key leader during the Boshin War.
Reconstructed Magistrate's Office2010
Completed in 2010 after archaeological investigations and planning starting in 1985, this building replicates the original administrative center of Goryokaku during the Tokugawa shogunate period. It contains exhibitions on the fort’s history, the magistrate's role, and the reconstruction process.
Goryokaku Park and Cherry Trees1914
The park, established in 1914, is famous for its approximately 1,600 cherry trees planted over a decade starting in 1913. It is one of Hokkaido’s premier cherry blossom viewing spots, attracting many visitors each spring.
Contact
Téléphone: 0138-21-3456