Every year, from December 1st to the final day of February, Hakodate's historical fortress of Goryokaku is lit up in an event known as Hoshi no Yume.
Around 5000 lights are strung along the perimeter of the fortress, which was constructed during the waning years of the Edo Period (1600-1868) as a defensive measure against potential international incursions. The illuminations take place each evening and last from 5:00pm to 8:00pm. A path runs along the exterior of the star-shaped structure, making the site perfect for a post-dinner winter stroll, especially when the snow is falling.
Getting there
The Goryokaku fortress can be reached on foot in fifteen minutes from the Goryokaku Koen-mae streetcar stop.
More info
Find out more about Goryokaku Park.
Mandy Bartok @mandy.bartok
Japan resident for 10 years, with time spent in Okinawa, Kumamoto and Tokyo.
