Built 163 years ago by the Tokugawa shogunate to protect the Tsugaru Strait gainst a Russian invasion, the star shaped fort was the place of the last battle of the Boshin War.

Today, only the moats remain, but the original shape of the fort is still clearly visible. Inside, the visitors can admire the Hakodate Magistrate’s Office, which was carefully reconstructed 8 years ago by analyzing old documents, photos and drawings, using traditional construction techniques and authentic materials.

Goryokaku fort, View from Goryokaku Tower, Hakodate

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Yesterday’s Japan Photo: The Kitchen of Kyoto, Nishiki Ichiba