We are pleased to announce that the Goryokaku Tower will open at 6:30 a.m. on New Year’s Day.
*Goryokaku Tower will open at normal hour (9 a.m.) on January 2.

Illuminated Tower for the New Year

The illumination lights of the tower, which are normally turned off at 10 p.m., are extended until midnight on New Year’s Day! The illumination of the tower informs people in Hakodate of the start of a new year!

Let’s watch the first sunrise from the Goryokaku Tower!

Elevator staff dressed in kimono welcome your visit.

*The time of the first sunrise in Hakodate is around 7:04 a.m.
*The first sunrise may not be seen due to weather conditions.
※The 1st floor store and the observation deck store will be open from 9:00 a.m. for regular business hours.

First Sunrise Lion Dance Performance

Immediately after the first sunrise on January 1 (around 7:04 a.m.), the First Sunrise Lion Dance Performance will be held at the observation deck.
Lion dance is a traditional performing art started in olden times in Japan. Dancers wearing a lion mask dance to ward off evil spirits to confer happiness during the New Year’s Holidays and celebration days in Japan. After watching the first sunrise, the lion dances to pray for good health for the year.

Mochi-pounding for good luck on New Year’s Day

From 7 a.m. on January 1, we will hold a mochi-pounding event at the atrium on the first level.
Visitors can feely participate in mochi-pounding and enjoy the taste of freshly made mochi.
*The event ends once all the mochi is distributed.

Goryokaku Tower awaits your visit from the New Year’s Day.