Shiryokaku

Overview & Charm

Shiryokaku is a vital defensive position (daiba) located in Hakodate, Hokkaido, dating back to the Boshin War at the end of the Edo period. Situated on a terrace in Jinka-cho, Hakodate, north-northeast of Goryokaku, its structure is a beautiful star-shaped bastion resembling a butterfly spreading its wings. Today, it is carefully preserved as a national historical site. The vast grounds feature earthen walls (earthworks) and dry moats that once served as key defensive points, inviting visitors to step back into the turbulent final days of the samurai era.

Historical & Cultural Background

In 1868, during the first year of the Meiji era, the forces of the former Shogunate hastily constructed "Shiryokaku" as a defensive position to prepare for attacks from the pro-Imperial forces occupying Goryokaku. It is said that this site played a crucial role in protecting the Hokkaido Toshogu Shrine, the guardian of Goryokaku. Legend has it that the site was completed in just a few days, with approximately 200 soldiers and 100 local residents mobilized under intense pressure. During the Boshin War in 1869, as the Imperial forces advanced, the retreating Shogunate forces moved toward Goryokaku. Although the site suffered decay after the war, it was designated as a national historical site in 1934, and through the efforts of the community and local government, the historical landscape and earthen walls have been preserved to this day.

Main Highlights

The greatest attraction is the "earthen walls" and "dry moats" that vividly illustrate the military architecture of the time. The defensive perimeter, measuring approximately 100m east-to-west and 70m north-to-south, features earthen walls about 5.4m wide and 3m high, demonstrating the strength of the former fortification. Additionally, a dry moat with a depth of 0.9m surrounds the walls, allowing visitors to visually understand the fortress design that utilized the natural terrain. You can also find traces of former artillery positions, providing a sense of historical reality. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk through the site while observing these historical remains.

Seasonal & Time-of-Day Recommendations

Shiryokaku reveals different faces depending on the season. Around May, the area is beautifully adorned with blooming lily of the valley flowers, adding a touch of natural beauty to the historical landscape. For those who wish to enjoy history study or a quiet stroll, daytime is the recommended time to visit. Walking through the vast grounds during daylight allows for a detailed observation of the military structures. Throughout the four seasons, you can spend a tranquil time feeling the weight of history in harmony with nature.

Experiences & Activities

Here, you can experience a "historical walk" that allows you to feel the pulse of Japan's modern history. Learning about the Boshin War and the retreating Shogunate forces through the actual terrain and earthen walls is an educational and intellectual experience. Visiting this site alongside Goryokaku will provide a deeper understanding of the overall defensive system of Hakodate. As you walk through the maintained areas, you can reflect on the background of how people once constructed and lived within this defensive position.

Surrounding Area

Several important historical sites are scattered around Shiryokaku. For instance, Goryokaku is a representative tourist destination in Hakodate and has a close relationship with Shiryokaku. Additionally, the nearby Hokkaido Toshogu (currently Kamiyama Inari Shrine) has a historical background related to protecting the spiritual direction of Goryokaku. Exploring these locations will deepen your understanding of Hakodate's historical defensive lines and the spiritual culture of that era.

Items to Bring, Clothing & Manners

• *Clothing**: Because some parts of the site have very steep slopes, we strongly recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. Please be especially careful if visiting with children or individuals with mobility issues.
• *Payment**: No payment (cash or card) is required as this is a public historical site. However, please check in advance if using nearby facilities.
• *English Support**: English signage is limited; we recommend using a smartphone translation app to deepen your understanding of the site.
• *Reservation**: No prior reservation is required.
• *Photography**: Photography of the landscape is free, but please do not damage the earthen walls or the grass.
• *Manners**: This historical site is a shared national treasure. It is strictly prohibited to climb the earthen walls, damage the grass, use fire, litter, play ball games, or bring pets on leashes.