Goryokaku: A Star-Shaped Fortress at the Heart of Japanese History

Located in Hakodate, on the island of Hokkaido, Goryokaku is one of Japan's most iconic fortresses, renowned for its unique star-shaped design and its pivotal role during the Boshin War. Now transformed into a park, this site symbolizes Japan's modernization during the turbulent late Tokugawa shogunate. Goryokaku stands as a testament to the nation's transition from feudalism to a modern era, where Japan opened itself to the world and adopted military and social innovations from the West.

The Origins of Goryokaku

Construction of Goryokaku began in 1857 amidst Japan's forced opening to international trade following two centuries of isolation. In 1853, the arrival of American Commodore Matthew Perry’s "Black Ships" compelled Japan to sign the Treaty of Kanagawa, opening its ports and urging the Tokugawa shogunate to modernize its infrastructure to face foreign powers. The need for modern defenses led to the construction of fortifications inspired by European models.

Hakodate, at the southern tip of Hokkaido, became a strategic site. Its geographical location made it a key port for foreign trade, while the city also served as a hub for colonizing Hokkaido, a relatively isolated and underdeveloped region at the time. It was within this context that Goryokaku was built—one of the first Japanese fortifications to adopt Western military designs.

The project was overseen by Takeda Ayasaburō, a Japanese military engineer trained in Western methods. He drew inspiration from the works of French engineer Sébastien Le Prestre de Vauban, renowned for his star-shaped fortifications widely used in 17th-century Europe. This design aimed to maximize defensive capabilities by eliminating blind spots. Goryokaku was completed in 1864, representing the cutting-edge of Japanese military engineering.

Historical Context: The Boshin War

Although Goryokaku was built to defend against foreign powers, its historical significance emerged during the internal conflict of the Boshin War (1868–1869). This civil war marked the end of the Tokugawa shogunate and the beginning of the Meiji era, pitting imperial forces—who supported Emperor Meiji's restoration of power—against shogunate loyalists.

In late 1868, after several defeats by imperial forces, the shogunate’s remaining supporters, led by Enomoto Takeaki, fled to Hokkaido. They established the Republic of Ezo, a pro-shogunate government, using Goryokaku as their headquarters. This short-lived republic, the only one in Japanese history, lasted less than a year.

In May 1869, imperial troops, now equipped and trained in modern methods, launched an offensive against the fortress. After weeks of siege, Goryokaku’s defenders surrendered. This marked the end of the Tokugawa shogunate and solidified the victory of imperial forces, paving the way for Meiji-era reforms.

The Architecture of Goryokaku: European Innovation in Japan

What sets Goryokaku apart from other Japanese fortresses is its five-pointed star-shaped design. Inspired by Vauban’s fortifications, this layout maximized defensive efficiency. Unlike traditional Japanese castles, often built with wooden structures, towers, and moats, Goryokaku features low earthen walls and a wide moat.

The star shape was crucial to Goryokaku’s defense. Each point of the star allowed cannons to cover multiple angles, making direct attacks difficult. Additionally, the earthen walls absorbed cannon fire more effectively than traditional stone walls.

The surrounding moat further enhanced its defenses. Filled with water, it complicated siege tactics, forcing attackers to navigate the structure while remaining vulnerable to cannon fire. Today, the moat serves as a scenic feature of the park, adding to Goryokaku's appeal as a picturesque spot for walks and picnics.

Goryokaku Today: A Historical Park

After the Boshin War, Goryokaku lost its military importance and was gradually transformed into a public park. In 1914, it officially became a tourist site, offering visitors a chance to explore its fascinating history while enjoying its natural beauty.

The Goryokaku Park is especially famous for its cherry blossoms in spring. Approximately 1,600 cherry trees line the fortress walls and pathways, attracting thousands of visitors every year during the hanami season—the traditional viewing of cherry blossoms.

The Goryokaku Tower

In 2006, the Goryokaku Tower was built, offering a spectacular panoramic view of the fortress and its surroundings. This 107-meter-tall tower allows visitors to appreciate the unique star shape of Goryokaku and provides exhibitions on the site’s history and the Boshin War.

The tower also houses a small museum dedicated to the fortress, offering deeper insights into the historical context and battles fought here. It is a must-visit for history enthusiasts seeking a deeper understanding of this transitional period in Japan’s history.

In addition to its historical significance, Goryokaku is now a popular destination for its natural beauty. Cherry blossoms in spring, vibrant autumn foliage, and nighttime park illuminations make Goryokaku a delightful spot year-round. The walking trails, picnic areas, and serene landscapes provide a relaxing escape steeped in history.

Conclusion

Goryokaku, the star-shaped fortress in Hakodate, embodies Japan’s transition from feudalism to modernity under Western influence. Its innovative design and role in the Boshin War make it a vital site for understanding Japan’s 19th-century history. Now a public park, Goryokaku attracts visitors not only for its military past but also for its natural beauty and tranquil setting.

The charm of Goryokaku lies in its seamless blend of past and present, offering visitors a glimpse into a pivotal era of Japanese history while allowing them to enjoy Hokkaido’s unique landscapes. If you’re seeking to explore a distinctive facet of Japanese history, Goryokaku is a must-visit destination.

Official Website

Click Me

Location