Japan's first Western-style fort was built in 1864 in the shape of a five-pointed star (goryō-kaku means 'five-sided fort'), and was designed to trap attackers in deadly crossfire. Nothing remains of the actual fort structure, but the landscaped grounds and moat are picturesque, and 1600 cherry trees make this a great spot in spring.
The 98m Goryō-kaku Tower was opened in 2006 so that the five-pointed star can be viewed from above. Take tram 2 or 5 to the Goryōkaku-kōen-mae stop.
