2025 Edition! Enjoy the cherry blossoms from the ground and the observatory in Goryokaku, Hokkaido!

  • Hokkaido
Goryokaku as seen from the tower (April 2024)

Goryokaku, famous for its cherry blossoms

Hokkaido's long winter is coming to an end and the cherry blossom season is approaching.
Usually, the best time to enjoy cherry blossoms is from late April to early May, but recently, cherry blossoms are often in full bloom in April. The Goryokaku Special Historic Site is home to approximately 1,500 cherry trees, mostly Someiyoshino, and every year during the cherry blossom season, the area becomes very crowded with Hakodate residents and tourists who come to view the cherry blossoms.

Photo-worthy! Beautiful star shape bordered by pink carpet

The cherry blossoms of "Special Historic Site Goryokaku" can be enjoyed not only from the ground, but also from the Goryokaku Tower, which stands adjacent to the park. The view from Goryokaku Tower, which stands adjacent to the park, is a must-see. Goryokaku Tower is 107 meters high, and the second floor of the observation deck is 90 meters high. Looking down from this Goryokaku Tower, one can see the entire star shape of Goryokaku.
When the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, Goryokaku looks as if it is floating on a carpet of pink.
The observation deck is 90 meters high

Cherry blossom viewing lights are illuminated during the cherry blossom season!

Every year, during the cherry blossom season, hanami (cherry blossom viewing) electric lights are turned on between 7:00 and 9:00 p.m. (In 2024, the lights will be turned on between 4:00 and 5:00 p.m.).
(In 2024, the event will be held from Saturday, April 20 to Monday, May 6.
Hakodate is still often cold at this time of year, especially at night. Please dress warmly when viewing the cherry blossoms.
Illuminated cherry blossoms

Goryokaku, the stage of history

Special Historic Site Goryokaku," now known as "Goryokaku Park," is a Western-style castle built at the end of the Edo period and was the site of the Hakodate War, the last battle of the Boshin War, in which the former shogunate forces led by Takeaki Enomoto and Toshizo Hijikata fought against the new Meiji government.
Goryokaku Park has also appeared in numerous movies, TV dramas, and manga. On the second floor of the Goryokaku Tower, there is an observation area where visitors can learn about the history of Goryokaku, so be sure to enjoy it as well as the cherry blossoms.
Image courtesy of Goryokaku Tower
Hakodate Magistrate's Office restored in 2010
Hakodate Goryokaku Tower official website

Take your favorite train and lodging combination for a budget-friendly trip!

You can create your own original trip!

The "JR East View Dynamic Rail Pack" is a variable-price individual travel product sold exclusively through the Internet that allows you to freely select a train and accommodations and make a reservation at once. Depending on the timing and conditions of your reservation, you may be able to save even on the day of departure at the earliest! We also offer one-day trip plans! We also offer day trip plans! Enjoy your own trip according to your schedule and purpose.

Click here for details

For train + lodging reservations in Hakodate and Onuma area, please visit [ JR East View Dynamic Rail Package ]
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