All Reviews of Goryokaku Tower

Looking up from the base of the tower, the tall structure with its sleek design rises straight into the sky, standing out beautifully against the blue sky, white clouds, and blooming flowers and greenery around it.

After taking the high-speed elevator directly to the observation deck, you can look down through the large floor-to-ceiling windows and take in the entire massive five-pointed-star-shaped moat and lush Goryokaku Park at a glance. You can even stand on the transparent reinforced-glass floor for the thrill of looking straight down from high above.

From this height, you can see the Hakodate cityscape along with the mountains and sea in the distance, while the unique geometric star-shaped landscape is truly eye-opening.

I highly recommend including Goryokaku Tower in an in-depth Hakodate itinerary. Whether you’re admiring the striking panoramic view of the star-shaped fortress, enjoying the transparent floor high above the ground, or taking in a view where history and modernity come together, it will add a memorable visual experience to your trip!

Goryokaku Tower is one of Hakodate's most iconic landmarks. From the observation deck, you can clearly see the distinctive star-shaped fort in Goryokaku Park, and the view from above is truly spectacular.

On this visit to Goryokaku Tower, I looked down from the observation deck and took in the entire five-pointed-star-shaped moat and lush green park. The exhibits on the observation deck also helped me learn more about the history of Goryokaku and the Battle of Hakodate.

Goryokaku Tower is a popular spot overlooking Goryokaku Fort, with a different look in each season. Inside the tower is the Goryokaku History Corridor, which uses detailed miniature models to introduce the turbulent history of the Battle of Hakodate and Goryokaku. History buffs shouldn't miss the impressive bronze statue of Hijikata Toshizo. The souvenir shop on the first floor has a wide selection, including distinctive gifts to take home!

Goryokaku Tower offers a panoramic view of Goryokaku Park. Inside, you can also see a model of Goryokaku and learn about its history and changing fortunes. There’s also a cool statue of Toshizo Hijikata. Both the top floor and the first floor have souvenir shops. On the first floor, you can buy Hokkaido-exclusive Monchhichi items and plenty of Hakodate specialties.

From the top of Goryokaku Tower, you can look down and see the complete star-shaped fort spread out below. The view is truly impressive, and you can also appreciate the beauty of Japanese history and architecture.

If you’re visiting Hakodate, it’s definitely worth adding to your itinerary.

Seeing the whole star shape from the plane was super obvious. I recognized it right away, and it felt totally different from seeing it on the ground. You can really appreciate the design from an aerial view.

Seeing that incredibly precise star shape makes you realize how amazing people in the past were.

From the observation deck at Goryokaku Tower, you can really take in the star-shaped design of Goryokaku. It's a unique view you just can't get from the ground.

You really need to go up to the observation deck to get a clear view of Japan's very first Western-style castle. Totally worth it!