Detailed Explanation of Goryokaku's History and Overview

 

　Table of Contents

1. Overview of Goryokaku
2. History of Goryokaku
3. Highlights of Goryokaku
   

Introduction

Goryokaku, located in Hakodate City, Hokkaido, is Japan's first Western-style star-shaped fort, captivating many tourists with its beautiful scenery and deep historical significance. Built between 1857 and 1866, it features a unique star-shaped design modeled after the Dutch fort of Bourtange.

This article provides a detailed overview, history, and highlights of Goryokaku. We will trace the history of Goryokaku, explain its defense system and the charm of its distinctive star-shaped design, and introduce the main spots and seasonal events worth visiting. This comprehensive guide will help you fully appreciate Goryokaku's appeal and offer detailed points to consider when visiting.

1. Overview of Goryokaku

Goryokaku is Japan's first Western-style star-shaped fort, located in Hakodate City, Hokkaido. It was constructed between 1857 and 1866 and features a unique shape modeled after the Dutch fort of Bourtange.

The Edo Shogunate built Goryokaku for northern defense, initially using it as the relocated Hakodate Magistrate's Office. However, just two years after its completion, the Edo Shogunate collapsed, and the fort was later used as a base for the former shogunate forces during the Battle of Hakodate.

Since 1914, Goryokaku has been open to the public as a park, cherished as a relaxation spot for Hakodate residents. The park is home to approximately 5,000 cherry trees, making it a popular cherry blossom viewing spot in spring. Visitors can also enjoy the stunning star-shaped view of the fort from Goryokaku Tower, with different seasonal landscapes offering unique experiences.

Designated as a Special Historic Site of Japan, Goryokaku is also selected as a Hokkaido Heritage site under "Goryokaku and the remnants of the Hakodate War." Managed by Hakodate City, the fort is well-maintained as a tourist destination. Its distinctive star shape was designed for defensive purposes, eliminating blind spots for attackers and maximizing the fort's defensive capabilities during combat.

2. History of Goryokaku

■ 1854 - Opening of the Port and Strengthening of Defenses

With the signing of the Treaty of Peace and Amity between the United States and Japan (Kanagawa Treaty) in 1854, the port of Hakodate (now Hakodate City) was opened to foreign trade. This prompted the Edo Shogunate to plan the construction of Goryokaku to enhance the defense of Hakodate and its surrounding areas. Goryokaku was designed as a Western-style star-shaped fort, modeled after the Dutch Bourtange Fort, with its design overseen by Rangaku (Dutch Studies) scholar Takeda Hisaburo. The fort incorporated the latest fortification techniques, focusing on defense.

■ 1864 - Completion of Goryokaku

Construction of Goryokaku began in 1857 and was completed in 1864. Initially, it was intended to serve as the new base for the Hakodate Magistrate’s Office. Following the opening of the port, the Edo Shogunate prioritized strengthening northern defenses, hence the construction of Goryokaku, a Western-style star-shaped fort. Its design allowed for crossfire from two directions regardless of the attacker's approach, enhancing its defensive capabilities. Additionally, the fort was built to demonstrate Japan’s military and technological prowess to Western powers.​​

■ 1868 - Boshin War and the Last Stand of the Shogunate Forces

During the Boshin War in 1868, former shogunate forces led by Enomoto Takeaki landed in Hakodate and used Goryokaku as their stronghold. Enomoto and his followers attempted to establish their own government in Ezo (Hokkaido). Despite the valiant efforts of samurai like Hijikata Toshizo, they were ultimately defeated by the overwhelming power of the new Meiji government forces. Goryokaku played a crucial role as the final stronghold of the shogunate forces, marking a significant turning point in Japan’s modernization.

■ 1869 - Seizure by the Meiji Government

In 1869, towards the end of the Boshin War, Goryokaku surrendered to the Meiji government forces. Following the surrender, the leaders of the former shogunate, including Enomoto Takeaki and Hijikata Toshizo, were captured, and Goryokaku ceased to function as a military fort. The site was neglected for a time, falling into a state of disrepair. However, by the end of the Meiji era, the historical significance of Goryokaku began to be recognized.

■ 1914 - Rebirth as a Park

In 1914, Goryokaku was opened to the public as a park, becoming a beloved recreational spot for Hakodate residents and visitors. The park is renowned for its approximately 5,000 cherry trees, attracting numerous visitors during the cherry blossom season each spring. From the Goryokaku Tower, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the beautiful star-shaped fort, with its scenery changing across the four seasons.

Goryokaku’s historical significance and picturesque landscape continue to captivate many visitors. It remains a site where one can appreciate both history and natural beauty, making it a valuable destination to explore.

3. Points of Interest in Goryokaku

Goryokaku, with its stunning beauty and rich history, offers many fascinating spots to explore. Here are some of the main attractions:

■ Goryokaku Tower

Goryokaku Tower stands at about 107 meters tall, providing an excellent vantage point to view the entire star-shaped fort. The observation deck, with its 360-degree glass windows, offers breathtaking views of Goryokaku, Hakodate city, and even Mount Hakodate. Inside the tower, there are exhibits on the history of Goryokaku, including a bronze statue of Hijikata Toshizo, helping visitors understand the fort's historical significance.

■ Hakodate Magistrate’s Office

Located at the center of Goryokaku, the Hakodate Magistrate’s Office was a key site for diplomacy, defense, and administration during the Edo period. It served as a critical base for the shogunate and later became the stronghold of the former shogunate forces during the Boshin War in 1868. The office was faithfully restored in 2010 using old photographs and drawings. Inside, visitors can explore grand halls and exhibits showcasing samurai life and construction techniques from the period.

■ Star-shaped Moat and Ramparts

The most distinctive feature of Goryokaku is its star-shaped moat and ramparts, which are masterpieces of Western-style fortification techniques focused on defense. This design allows for "crossfire" from two directions, ensuring efficient defense against any attack direction.

【 Structural Details 】
・Star-shaped Design

The star-shaped fortress, with its radiating bastions (ravelins), ensures that defenders can maintain an advantageous position regardless of the attack direction. This shape minimizes blind spots and maximizes defensive efficiency. The "flank" areas between the bastions support the side of each bastion, providing effective defense against approaching enemies.​


・Moat 

The moat surrounding Goryokaku is wide and deep, preventing direct access to the fortress. Wooden bridges around the moat delay enemy advances as part of the defense system. The moat’s water surface reflects the surrounding structures, adding to the scenic beauty, especially with cherry blossoms in spring, autumn foliage, and winter snowscapes.​​

・Ramparts 

The ramparts of Goryokaku are high and thick, crucial for preventing enemy incursions. Walking along the ramparts reveals their height and thickness, offering a deeper understanding of the overall defensive system. Trees planted along the ramparts provide a natural setting for visitors to explore while experiencing the historical structure. From the ramparts, one can overlook the entire Goryokaku and appreciate its complex design.​

【 Highlights and Experiences 】
・Strolling Around the Moat

Well-maintained walkways allow visitors to stroll around the moat, experiencing its beauty and the complexity of the defensive system. Water lilies bloom in the moat, offering different scenic views in each season.

・Walking on the Ramparts 

Walking on the ramparts provides a comprehensive view of Goryokaku’s structure. The elevated perspective reveals the arrangement of the moat and bastions, highlighting the fort’s defensive capabilities.


・Cherry Blossoms and Seasonal Scenery 

Goryokaku Park is known for its beautiful seasonal scenery. In spring, approximately 1,600 cherry trees bloom, creating a stunning reflection in the moat known as "inverted cherry blossoms." Summer brings lush greenery, autumn offers vibrant foliage, and winter showcases serene snow-covered landscapes, attracting visitors year-round.


・Goryokaku Festival 

Held every May, the "Hakodate Goryokaku Festival" features reenactments of the final battles of the Boshin War. Performances with cannons and firearms, along with a surrender ceremony, bring Goryokaku’s history to life for attendees.

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In Conclusion

Goryokaku is an essential heritage site that symbolizes Japan's history and culture. The beautiful star-shaped fortress, rich history, and seasonal landscapes continue to captivate visitors. Through the overview, history, and highlights introduced in this article, we hope you have gained a deeper understanding of the charm of this magnificent fortress.

Goryokaku is worth visiting throughout the year, showcasing different expressions in each season. When planning your visit, be sure to check event information and points of interest in advance to make the most of your trip.