Matsumae Castle | Review by WANG

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Matsumae Castle

Known as a prime cherry blossom viewing spot, it is the northernmost Japanese-style fortress in Japan.

10 Sep 2026 See More

In front of the stately castle gate and the large stone monument inscribed "Historic Site: Matsumae Castle," the white walls and blue-tiled keep, blending the style of defensive architecture from the late Edo period, immediately come into view. Surrounded by lush green lawns and pine trees, it exudes a calm sense of history.

Up close, the castle's solid stone walls and rustic wooden gate structure are very detailed, making you feel as if you have traveled back in time to the domain era at the end of the shogunate.

From the castle keep or another elevated spot, you can take in both the surrounding greenery and the simple townscape of Matsumae. The excellent views create an incredible sense of peace.

I highly recommend including Matsumae Castle in an in-depth historical walking itinerary through southern Hokkaido. Whether you admire the precious Japanese castle architecture or take time to appreciate the strong Edo-period atmosphere, it will add a rich cultural experience to your trip!

Other Reviews by WANG

Hakodate Bugyosho

Hakodate Magistrate’s Office faithfully recreates the Edo Shognate’s security base around Japan’s northern territory. It is built at the original location in the former Goryokaku (the star-shaped fort), using as much similar skills and provisions as those in the Edo Period, such as pine beams, Bingo tatami mats or sliding doors with hand-made paper.
- Hakodate and Matsumae
- Tourist Attractions
10 Sep 2026 See More

In the spacious front courtyard of the Magistrate’s Office, the impressive black-tiled Japanese roof and dark wooden exterior immediately catch the eye, creating a calm and dignified atmosphere against the blue sky and white clouds.

The building’s meticulous traditional craftsmanship and broad roofline are remarkable, making you feel as if you’ve traveled back in time to a key political site at the end of the Edo period.

Inside, you can appreciate the spacious tatami rooms and the fine details of the historical exhibits, while the displays provide deeper insight into the important history surrounding the opening of the Port of Hakodate.

I highly recommend including Hakodate Magistrate’s Office in your walk around Goryokaku. Whether you’re admiring the exquisite craftsmanship of traditional Japanese wooden architecture or taking in the history of the late Edo period, it adds rich cultural depth to the visit!
Goryokaku Park

Goryokaku, a Western-style fortress, was built in 1866 and served as the political capital of Hokkaido until the new Meiji government took over. It later became a popular tourist attraction after it was opened to the public as "Goryokaku Park" in 1914 and was designated as a national special historic site.
- Hakodate and Matsumae
- Parks & Gardens
10 Sep 2026 See More

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!
Goryokaku Tower

Goryokaku Tower, built adjacent to Goryokaku Park, offers a bird's-eye view of the Goryokaku Ruins, a special national historic site, from 90 meters above ground, and is loved by locals and tourists alike as a landmark of Hakodate.
- Hakodate and Matsumae
- Observatories
10 Sep 2026 See More

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!