Hakodate Magistrate's Office: A Recreation of the Administrative Center from the Late Edo Period

Located at the center of Goryokaku Park, the Hakodate Magistrate's Office was established in 1864 by the Edo Shogunate as a regional administrative office. It was responsible for handling key matters such as northern defense, diplomacy, and trade management. The original building was dismantled during the Meiji period due to the abolition of feudal domains and establishment of prefectures. In 2010, it was faithfully reconstructed based on detailed historical records and blueprints, resulting in the wooden Japanese-style architecture seen today.

The interior of the magistrate's office has been recreated using traditional woodworking techniques, showcasing the administrative spaces of the late Edo period, including the main hall, meeting rooms, and magistrate's office areas. Visitors can feel as though they've stepped back 150 years in time. The museum also features models, documents, and multimedia displays that provide insights into the historical context of the Boshin War and the Hakodate War, making it a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.

📸 Highly recommended: Take photos in front of the building with the lush greenery or winter snow of Goryokaku as the backdrop, highlighting the serene beauty of traditional Japanese architecture.

🚋 Transportation: Located in the same area as Goryokaku Park, it’s about a 15-minute walk from the "Goryokaku Koen-mae" tram stop.

Post by Jason906 | Sep 7, 2025