Goryokaku Star Fort — Sakura Viewing Tower

Goryokaku (五稜郭) is a star-shaped fortress built in 1866, Japan's first Western-style citadel designed with artillery defense in mind. The five-pointed star layout (inspired by European forts) features moats, earthen ramparts, and strategic angles to defend against naval attack. The fort's brief military history ended in 1869 during the Boshin War when pro-shogunate forces made their last stand here before surrendering to the Meiji government.

Today, the fort is a park with cherry trees lining the star-shaped moat. In spring (late April-early May), 1,600 cherry trees bloom, and the star shape becomes a pink outline visible from the adjacent Goryokaku Tower (107m observation deck). The view from above — a perfect five-pointed star of pink blossoms — is one of Japan's most unique sakura compositions.