If you visit Hokkaido in winter, there is a scenery you must see at least once.
That is the event symbolizing winter in Hakodate, the "Goryokaku Illumination".
About 2,000 lights decorate the historic moat of Goryokaku, and seen from the sky, it looks as if a giant star is floating on the ground.
"I want to see this scenery," "How do I get there?" "What is the best time?"
To answer all these questions, this article thoroughly introduces the charm of the Goryokaku Illumination held in 2025.
Not just viewing the lights, but also understanding the history and culture behind it, tips on how to enjoy it, and information on nearby sightseeing and gourmet spots.
This is a definitive guide for those who want to make their winter trip to Hokkaido a special one.
*Photos in the article are images or from past events.
1. What is the Goryokaku Illumination?
Goryokaku in Hakodate City is a star-shaped fortress built in the late Edo period.
The illumination event that takes advantage of this beautiful pentagonal structure is the "Goryosei no Yume (Star Dream) Illumination" held every winter.
This event decorates the moat of Goryokaku with about 2,000 bulbs along the star shape, and the giant light star that appears in the darkness at night deeply moves viewers.
In particular, the view from the observation deck of Goryokaku Tower feels like looking at a star that has descended from the night sky.
Light in the night sky, snow, and silence.
All these harmonize to create a fantastic world unique to this place.
It has been loved as a winter tradition not only by tourists but also by the local people for many years.
2. Basic Information on Goryokaku Illumination
・Event Name
Hoshi no Yume (Star Dream) Illumination
・Dates and Times
December 1, 2025 (Monday) – February 28, 2026 (Saturday)
Lighting time: From sunset to 7:00 PM (illuminated daily)
・Location
Goryokaku Park (Goryokakucho, Hakodate City, Hokkaido)
Observation point: Goryokaku Tower (observation ticket required)
Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/nS416z69b1MuSa9V8
・Admission Fee
Entry to Goryokaku Park is free
Goryokaku Tower observation deck admission fee: Adults 1,000 yen (planned), elementary and junior high school students 500 yen, preschool children free
・Official Website
https://www.goryokaku-tower.co.jp
3. Highlights and Features of Goryokaku Illumination
"Goryosei no Yume" is not just an ordinary light-up event.
It utilizes the unique star-shaped fortress’s form, outlining the moat with lights so that the entire shape appears as a large glowing star.
One of the highlights is of course the view from Goryokaku Tower.
From the observation deck, the huge star spreads clearly across the entire field of vision.
On snowy days, the light reflects on the silver-white background, creating an even more fantastic atmosphere.
It is a scenery unique to the clear air of winter.
Also, in 2025, due to renovation work on the Goryokaku Rear Gate Bridge, part of the illumination will be moved outside the moat.
It offers a chance to enjoy photography from different angles and compositions unlike before.
Additionally, pay attention to how the appearance changes just after sunset and during the night.
During twilight, the scene has a bluish mystical light, and when the sun fully sets, the contrast of deep darkness and light makes it appear as though it is floating in the night sky.
It is recommended to enjoy it at different times in one visit.
4. Tips for Enjoying the Goryokaku Illumination
・Choose Your Visiting Time Carefully
The most beautiful time is within 30 minutes after sunset.
The balance between light and sky color is exquisite, making it perfect for photos.
・Take Thorough Cold Weather Precautions
Winters in Hakodate often have temperatures below freezing.
Especially at night, the wind gets stronger, so gloves, hats, and scarves are a must.
Choose shoes with good slip resistance.
・Photography Tips
A wide-angle lens is recommended when shooting from the observation deck.
Avoid using tripods during busy times, and try handheld shooting or short uses.
Also, if you aim for snowy days, you might capture even more fantastic shots.
・Buy Tickets Early
Tickets for the Goryokaku Tower observation deck stop selling at 5:50 PM.
As it gets crowded during peak tourist seasons, be sure to arrive with plenty of time.
5. Access Information
・Nearest Station
Hakodate City Tram "Goryokaku Koen Mae" Station (about 15 minutes on foot)
・How to Get There
- From Hakodate Station by city tram: about 20 minutes
Get off at "Goryokaku Koen Mae" from "Hakodate Ekimae" and walk to Goryokaku - By bus: Get off right at "Goryokaku Tower Mae" on the Hakodate Bus
- By taxi: about 15 minutes from Hakodate Station
In winter, due to snow and icy roads, it is recommended to allow extra time when traveling by any method.
6. Nearby Sightseeing Spots
Around Goryokaku, there are many sightseeing spots you should not miss besides the illumination.
Goryokaku Tower
Famous as the best spot to view the illumination, but even visiting during the day offers rich exhibits to learn about the history and structure of the fortress.
Hakodate Magistrate's Office
Located inside Goryokaku Park, a historical building where you can experience the atmosphere of the Edo period.
Trappistine Monastery
A bit further away, you can visit this monastery wrapped in silence and solemnity.
Motomachi & Bay Area
Brick warehouses and the famous night view of Hakodate Mountain Ropeway are accessible by city tram.
Combining these spots before or after the illumination makes for a fulfilling itinerary.
7. Nearby Gourmet
The area around Goryokaku is one of Hakodate's top gourmet areas.
Many restaurants offer Hokkaido’s unique flavors focusing on seafood.
Before enjoying the illumination in the evening, tasting local seafood or after the event, savoring warm sweets is recommended.
Ramen, jingisukan (grilled mutton), and warm soup curry eaten in the cold winter warm you up from the core.
There are also plenty of cafes and sweets shops, perfect for resting between sightseeing.
Especially before and after the illumination, hot drinks to warm up chilled bodies are popular.
In Conclusion
The Goryokaku Illumination is not just a tourist event, but a unique winter experience in Hakodate where history, nature, and the art of light merge.
The light display that utilizes the star-shaped fortress, the only one of its kind in Japan, is unparalleled worldwide.
Moreover, its beauty is so delicate that photographs cannot fully convey it; it changes its appearance daily based on weather and snowfall—it is truly a "living scenery."
That is why it makes you want to visit again and again.
For your travel memories, a breathtaking spectacle awaits—
Spend an unforgettable night at the Goryokaku Illumination that colors Hakodate’s winter.
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