Hakodate Goryokaku Park: A Fusion of History and Nature in Hokkaido
What is Hakodate Goryokaku Park?
Hakodate Goryokaku Park, located in Hakodate City, Hokkaido, is a beautiful historic park. Goryokaku is a western-style star-shaped fort built by the Shogunate at the end of the Edo period, known as Japan’s only pentagonal fort. Now developed into a park, it is famous for its approximately 1,600 cherry trees that bloom in spring, making it a renowned cherry blossom viewing spot.
This park is not only a historical heritage site but also a place where you can enjoy the beauty of nature throughout the seasons. Visiting during the cherry blossom season or the autumn foliage is especially worthwhile for photography and leisurely walks. From the Goryokaku Tower, you can view the entire park and admire its beautiful star-shaped design from above.
Access to Hakodate Goryokaku Park
From Narita Airport
Accessing Hakodate from Narita Airport is quite simple. First, take a domestic flight to Hakodate Airport. Major airlines like ANA and JAL operate direct flights, with a flight time of about 1 hour and 30 minutes. From Hakodate Airport, you can take an airport shuttle bus or taxi to Goryokaku Park, which takes about 20 minutes.
From Haneda Airport
There are also numerous direct flights from Haneda Airport to Hakodate. The flight time is similar to that from Narita, about 1 hour and 30 minutes. After arriving at Hakodate Airport, you can take an airport shuttle bus or taxi to Goryokaku Park, arriving in about 20 minutes.
From Kansai International Airport
Direct flights from Kansai International Airport to Hakodate are also available, with a flight time of about 2 hours. From Hakodate Airport, you can take an airport shuttle bus or taxi to Goryokaku Park, reaching it in about 20 minutes.
Highlights of Hakodate Goryokaku Park
Goryokaku Tower
One of the highlights of visiting Goryokaku Park is Goryokaku Tower. From this tower, you can view the entire park and enjoy its beautiful star-shaped fort from above. The view from the observation deck is stunning in any season, whether it’s the cherry blossoms in spring, the greenery in summer, the autumn foliage, or the snowy landscape in winter.
Goryokaku Museum
Within Goryokaku Park, there’s also the Goryokaku Museum. This museum offers insights into the history of Goryokaku and its significant role during the tumultuous end of the Edo period. Exhibits include weapons, documents, and maps from that era, making it a must-visit spot for history enthusiasts.
Cherry Blossom Viewing
In spring, Goryokaku Park becomes a major attraction for cherry blossom viewing. The approximately 1,600 cherry trees in full bloom are a breathtaking sight. Walking through the park under the cherry blossom tunnels and enjoying the scenery with the moat in the background will leave you with unforgettable memories. The cherry trees are also illuminated at night, offering a magical experience of night cherry blossoms.
Autumn Foliage and Winter Scenery
In autumn, the park’s trees turn vibrant colors, attracting many visitors. The autumn season is an excellent opportunity for photography enthusiasts to capture stunning shots. In winter, the park transforms into a snowy wonderland. The sight of Goryokaku covered in snow is like a scene from a fairy tale, enchanting visitors.
Surrounding Information
Hakodate Morning Market
Located about 15 minutes by car from Goryokaku Park, the Hakodate Morning Market is famous for its fresh seafood. Here, you can enjoy seafood bowls, sushi, and other dishes made with fresh local ingredients. It’s also an excellent place to buy local specialties as souvenirs.
Yunokawa Onsen
Near Goryokaku Park, there’s the popular hot spring area of Yunokawa Onsen. Known for its beautifying effects on the skin, this historic hot spring is a perfect place to relax and rejuvenate after a day of sightseeing.
Mount Hakodate
Mount Hakodate’s night view is known as one of the “world’s three best night views.” After visiting Goryokaku Park, taking the ropeway to the top of Mount Hakodate to enjoy the panoramic night view of Hakodate city and the sea is highly recommended.
Conclusion
Hakodate Goryokaku Park is an enchanting tourist spot where history and nature come together. With its seasonal beauty from cherry blossoms and autumn foliage to snowy landscapes, there’s always something new to discover. With easy access from Narita, Haneda, and Kansai airports and nearby attractions like Hakodate Morning Market, Yunokawa Onsen, and Mount Hakodate, Goryokaku Park is a must-visit when you are in Hakodate. Come and experience the beauty and history of this unique park!