Hakodate's Must-Visit Japanese Castle: Goryokaku Ruins

Goryokaku is a star-shaped fortress located in Hakodate City, built during the late Edo period by the Tokugawa Shogunate to strengthen northern defenses and resist foreign forces. Goryokaku is Japan's most iconic star-shaped fortress and the only one open to visitors where you can clearly see its pentagonal shape from above. Although I missed the chance to go up the tower this time, visiting the park itself was still very worthwhile! Goryokaku also served as a battlefield during the collapse of the Shogunate's power and the start of the Meiji Restoration's modernization reforms. Cherry blossoms 🌸 symbolize samurai, so the castle grounds are filled with cherry trees, making it a famous spot for cherry blossom viewing during spring.