How can I get to Goryokaku Tower from Hakodate city center?

You can take the tram from Hakodate city center and get off at 'Goryokakukoen-mae' station. It takes about 15-25 minutes by tram, and then it's about a 10-minute walk from the station to the tower.

How much is the adult admission fee for Goryokaku Tower, and what are its operating hours?

The adult admission fee for Goryokaku Tower is ~$6. The operating hours are from 9 AM to 6 PM.

Can I see the night view from Goryokaku Tower?

Since the tower operates until 6 PM, you cannot see the night view in summer as the sun sets later. It seems the night view can only be seen in winter when the sun sets earlier.

What special scenery can I see when I go up Goryokaku Tower?

From the tower, you can see the star-shaped Goryokaku Park at a glance. You can enjoy the scenery stretching out to the town and the sea from various 360-degree angles.

Goryokaku Tower Hakodate: Explore the Star Fort & Park in…

Goryokaku Tower

Exploring Beyond Sapporo: Hakodate's Hidden Gem

The Five-Pointed Star

Hokkaido, Japan's captivating northern island, is a treasure trove of destinations. While many flock to popular spots like Biei, Furano, Otaru, and Noboribetsu, my heart truly belongs to Hakodate. Perhaps it's the fewer crowds, or maybe its distinctly local vibe that draws me in, but I often wonder if more direct flights were available, Hakodate would become a prime entry or exit point for my Hokkaido adventures.

Having previously covered Hakodate's more well-known attractions, this time I want to introduce you to a slightly less-traveled gem. If you're only in town for a day or two, fitting this into your itinerary might be a tight squeeze. However, for those with a more relaxed schedule or planning a second visit, it's an absolutely rewarding experience.

I'm talking about the spectacular star-shaped Goryokaku Fort, a sight so striking it even stands out beautifully on Google Maps.

How to Get to Goryokaku Tower

Despite its unique charm, Goryokaku Fort remains somewhat off the main tourist radar. I believe there are two main reasons for this: firstly, Hakodate itself isn't always a mandatory stop for every Hokkaido visitor, unlike Otaru or Noboribetsu. Secondly, even if you visit Hakodate, the fort is a little removed from the city's central downtown area where most tourists stay.

Getting there is straightforward. Just hop on a tram from almost anywhere nearby and head north. Your stop will be 'Goryokakukoenmae' Station. Depending on your starting point in the city, the tram ride typically takes around 15 to 25 minutes. Once you disembark, simply follow the prominent tower you'll see in the distance, and after about a 10-minute walk, you'll arrive.

You'll also find a branch of Lucky Pierrot, a famous local burger chain often featured in "things to do in Hokkaido" lists, right near the tower.

You've arrived!

Operating Hours and Admission Fees

Admission for adults is around ~$7. You can purchase tickets on-site, but I personally prefer to book in advance through Klook. From my experience, pre-booking activities and attraction tickets always makes the trip smoother and more convenient.

I visited in the summer, but my ticket featured stunning winter imagery. With its vibrant trees, seasonal flowers, and blankets of snow, it's clear that Goryokaku offers a completely different, breathtaking experience in every season.

The moment you ascend, the iconic five-pointed star shape of the fort unfolds before you. It's even more impressive in person than in photos – far larger than you might expect, with the charming Hakodate cityscape sprawling out beyond it, creating a truly captivating vista.

With a full 360-degree panoramic view, you can shift your perspective to take in both the bustling town and the serene ocean. There's even a thrilling glass floor section, reminiscent of Bangkok's Mahanakhon SkyWalk, offering a unique downward gaze!

I've heard the night view is absolutely stunning, but you'll likely only catch it during the winter months. The tower's operating hours are from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (09:00-18:00), which means the sun needs to set before closing. In summer, the sun is still high and bright well past 6:00 PM.

Once you've fully savored the incredible views from above, it's time to explore the star-shaped grounds on foot.

📍 Goryokaku Tower
43-9 Goryokakucho, Hakodate, Hokkaido 040-0001 Japan

📍 Goryokaku Park
44-2 Goryokakucho, Hakodate, Hokkaido 040-0001 Japan

Right below the tower lies Goryokaku Park. While there might not be a long list of specific "attractions" within the park itself, it's an absolute must-do to combine with your tower visit, making it a truly unique Hakodate experience.

Goryokaku Park

Around 5:30 PM. Still too early for those coveted night views...

The reason is simple: the scenery is absolutely breathtaking. Just strolling across one of its bridges, gazing at the expansive sky and lush forest, instantly brings a sense of calm and rejuvenation.

You can even look back up at the tower where you just were, or simply wander leisurely through the grounds – it's a place that invites unhurried exploration.

Goryokaku Tower Tickets

Unless you're spontaneously deciding to go on a whim, it's always more convenient to book your tickets in advance. You can often snag better deals by utilizing promotions or discount coupons. Plus, having a digital record is a great way to remember your visit dates! Even as someone who tends to travel without rigid plans, I often find myself pulling out my phone to book tickets via an app on the spot, as it's typically cheaper and helps keep my travel memories organized.

So, if you're planning a trip to Hakodate, make sure to put Goryokaku Tower on your list – it's a Hakodate highlight I'd love to revisit with every changing season.