Fort Goryokaku (五稜郭) was the site of the last samurai battle between the Army of Japan (Emperor) and the Tokugawa Shogun. When the Army of Japan took the fort, it marked the start of the Meiji-era and end of the samurai.

Fort Goryokaku is a massive European style star fort. It features low thick walls that protect it from cannon fire and a wide moat that protects it from climbing (infantry). It's star shape is designed to reduced the number of blind spots for the fort's cannons.





Today Fort Goryokaku is a park that's open to the public. It's the best spot in Hakodate for hanami (cherry blossom viewing). The park is also picturesque in autumn colors.





There's a 107 meter (350 foot) high viewing tower in front of the park that offers spectacular views of the fort.



At the center of the fort is a (reconstructed) Magistrate Office. This was the Shogun's war room — from which he planned his last stand against the Emperor.

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