Goryokaku Tower | Review by Ming Yu

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Goryokaku Tower

A landmark of Hakodate with a view of the Goryokaku Ruins, a special historic site, below.

30 Oct 2026 See More

As soon as you leave the Hakodate Magistrate’s Office and look up, you can see Goryokaku Tower rising beside Goryokaku Park. The tall, upright tower has a striking presence beneath the clouds. Its clean geometric lines and modern appearance create a very unusual yet harmonious contrast with the historic park below.

I took the high-speed elevator up to the observation deck, and the moment the doors opened, I was blown away by the vast view before me! Seen from above, the enormous star-shaped fortress looked like a perfect green jewel set into the landscape of Hakodate. It was so spectacular that I couldn’t stop taking photos. My legs felt a little weak standing on the glass floor, but looking down at the scenery below was truly thrilling. The observation deck also has beautifully detailed historical miniature models. After walking around, I bought some milk soft-serve ice cream and enjoyed it while taking in the view. I honestly think that if you visit Goryokaku in Hakodate, you have to go up the tower and see this one-of-a-kind five-pointed star from above for the trip to truly feel complete!

Other Reviews by Ming Yu

Ajidokoro Satou

Ajidokoro Satou is a creative izakaya run by a skilled owner who honed his craft at various Japanese restaurants in Tokyo, specializing in traditional cuisine, kaiseki, and sushi. Known among locals for its exquisite seasonal dishes, the restaurant focuses on authentic Japanese flavors crafted from carefully selected ingredients.
- Fuchu, Chofu, Tama
- Izakaya
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The two things you absolutely can’t miss here are the signature live squid fishing and the katte-don with toppings of your choice! After catching a live squid yourself, the staff immediately prepares and slices it right in front of you. When it arrives at the table, the tentacles are even still moving slightly. Dip it in a little soy sauce and put it in your mouth—the incredible sweetness and springy texture are truly surprising. Then order a generously topped seafood bowl loaded with salmon roe, sea urchin, and scallops. Every big bite is filled with the fresh flavors of the sea. Pure happiness!
Kaiten Sushi Hakodate Marukatsu Suisan Main Branch

Located just a short walk from JR Hakodate Station inside the Hakodate Bay Gourmet Club, a dining complex in the bay area, this conveyor-belt sushi restaurant is operated directly by a long-established fishmonger.
- Hakodate and Matsumae
- Japanese Cuisine
30 Oct 2026 See More

At dinnertime, I walked over to Hakodate Bay Gourmet Club next to the Kanemori Red Brick Warehouses. Seeing the red-brick building and signs for all the famous restaurants instantly made my stomach growl! This place brings together some of Hakodate’s most famous local foods, from the fresh conveyor-belt sushi at Marukatsu Suisan and the light broth of Ajisai’s shio ramen to the fragrant Jingisukan barbecue at Youyoutei. I spent ages standing in front of the sign by the entrance, unable to decide what to eat.

I finally picked a place and ordered sashimi and sweet shrimp delivered straight from the harbor. Every bite was full of sweetness, and it was so satisfying with an ice-cold beer! The restaurant was filled with lively laughter, and the warm aroma of food drifted through the air, completely soothing my sore feet and exhaustion after walking all day. Whether you’re craving seafood, ramen, or barbecue, you can find it all here. It’s definitely a delicious spot you shouldn’t miss when visiting the Hakodate Bay area!
Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse Hakodate History Plaza

Built in 1909 (Meiji 42), the Kanemori warehouses played a major role in the development of shipping in Hakodate Port. Hakodate History Plaza is a valuable facility that preserves the building’s original character, from its beautiful English-bond red brick exterior to the cypress pillars supporting the high ceilings.
- Hakodate and Matsumae
- Commercial Buildings
30 Oct 2026 See More

Walking along the harbor into Hakodate History Plaza inside the Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse, the moment I pushed open the heavy iron door, I was greeted by the faint, rustic scent of the high wooden structure. The atmosphere was quieter than outside, with a calm sense of history.

This used to be an actual commercial warehouse, but it has now been transformed into a stylish retro space. The beer hall inside is the biggest attraction. Sitting beneath the towering wooden beams and pillars, enjoying a glass of Hakodate beer brewed with local water along with some piping-hot signature snacks, that slightly tipsy, relaxed feeling was so comfortable! Browsing handicrafts with a nostalgic Meiji-era style or stopping to try the extremely popular cheesecake, I took my time walking around this historic space, and before I knew it, half the afternoon had passed. This is definitely the most worthwhile quiet corner to stop and savor when visiting the Kanemori warehouse district!