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    In front of the large stone monument reading “Special Historic Site: Goryokaku Ruins” beside the moat, a rustic wooden bridge and calm water come into view. Surrounded by lush green trees and the moat, the area has a serene atmosphere.

    After crossing the wooden bridge into the star-shaped fort, you can stroll along the wide, flat earthworks and paths. Not only can you get a close look at this Western-style military defense facility built at the end of the Edo period, but you can also see detailed historical models and informational signs.

    Whether you’re standing inside the fort looking up at the blue sky or enjoying the gentle breeze along the moat, the entire park offers a peaceful and pleasant walking experience.

    I highly recommend including Goryokaku Park in an in-depth walking itinerary in Hakodate. Whether you go up the tower to see the full star shape before exploring it on foot or simply enjoy a leisurely walk through this historic green space, it will add a rich cultural experience to your trip!

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    Goryokaku Park is one of Hakodate’s most iconic historical attractions. What makes it especially unique is that from above, you can see the star-shaped fortress, which is very impressive. The entire park is surrounded by green trees, creating a beautiful contrast with the surrounding cityscape and making you want to take photos to remember it.

    This time, I visited Goryokaku Park in person and took a leisurely walk along the paths of the star-shaped fortress, enjoying the moat and natural scenery while taking in the historic atmosphere of the site. Walking through the spacious grounds was very pleasant, and I could also experience Hakodate’s unique cultural charm.

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    Goryokaku was once an important political and military stronghold, but today it is a well-known cherry blossom viewing spot in Hakodate. The most distinctive feature is that, from above, you can see the entire five-pointed star-shaped fort, which is truly unique. Cherry trees are planted all around the fort. Just imagine the entire Goryokaku surrounded by a sea of pink blossoms when they are in full bloom—it must be incredibly beautiful!

    There were no cherry blossoms during this visit, but the star-shaped fort alone was still very distinctive. If you're in Hakodate during cherry blossom season, this place is definitely worth adding to your itinerary.

    There is an additional fee to visit the indoor observation facility, but from up high, you can get a clearer view of Goryokaku's complete star shape.

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    Goryokaku Park in Hakodate is dressed in a silvery-white blanket of snow in winter. The star-shaped fort covered in snow feels quiet and magical.

    Walking through the snow and taking in the pure white scenery feels like stepping into a winter painting.

    It may not have the romance of cherry blossom season, but Goryokaku in winter has a peaceful, mysterious charm. You may even get to enjoy the romantic nighttime illuminations.

    No matter which season you visit, you can experience a different kind of beauty.

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    One of the main locations from Detective Conan: The Million-dollar Pentagram. In early summer, Goryokaku Park is full of lush greenery. The moat and fresh green scenery throughout the park complement each other beautifully, making it hard to leave.

    I’d love to come back and visit Goryokaku in different seasons to experience its unique charm throughout the year 🤩🤩🤩

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    Beautiful scenery. It's also really pretty in winter and has a unique charm. The souvenir shopping was great too.

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    I went in winter, and the scenery was beautiful. You can see the star-shaped park! When it snows, everything turns pure white, and the views are amazing.

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    This star-shaped castle park is so unique! Just looking at it from above is seriously impressive!

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    If you go up Goryokaku Tower, you get a full panoramic view of Goryokaku. The star-shaped layout is really clear from above.

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    You can not only admire the impressive historic ruins and beautiful natural scenery, but also learn a lot about important events from Japan's late Edo period.

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