Travel for Life

Selective Splendor: Goryokaku Offers Partial Illumination Near the Tower As twilight paints the sky, Goryokaku transforms into a captivating spectacle. The tower, a beacon above the star-shaped fort, presides over nearly 1,600 cherry trees adorned with soft illuminations. The renowned Somei Yoshino variety casts a magical, ethereal glow, bathing the grounds in a breathtaking display. While not all trees are illuminated, the effect is no less enchanting. Until 9:00 PM, the gentle play of light and shadow transforms the landscape into a harmonious blend of history and natural beauty. It's a must-see for anyone seeking a moment of tranquility and awe under the springtime night sky. Goryokaku at Night: A Spellbinding Dance of Blossoms and Light  (YouTube  link ) Photo Gallery A pleasant surprise awaited me on the evening of April 21st, 2024. My tram ride from Shiyakusho-mae to Goryokaku Tower revealed a smaller-than-expected crowd. While there were still many people enjoying ...

Goryokaku's Star Unveiled: Panoramic Views from the Top Experiencing  Goryokaku  ⭐⭐⭐amidst the cherry blossoms’ peak from late April to early May is truly memorable. Picture being encircled by a sea of over 1,600 Yoshino cherry trees, their gentle pink blossoms draping above you like a floral tapestry. Goryokaku’s star-shaped fort transforms into a bastion of blooms, with the flowers tracing the moat’s contour and the fort’s angular tips. The fort’s celestial design offers an unparalleled spectacle. Strolling along its edges, you witness an evolving floral landscape, with each step revealing a fresh view of the blossoming splendor. A Bird's-Eye View of Goryokaku's Cherry Blossom Paradise (1 of 2; YouTube link ) A Bird's-Eye View of Goryokaku's Cherry Blossom Paradise (2 of 2; YouTube link ) Photo Gallery On April 21st, 2024, I visited  Goryokaku  to see the cherry blossoms. I was amazed by the scale of the floral tapestry. Arriving early in the morning, I strolled a...

Sparkling Cityscapes Unfold at Night: Panoramic Views from  Hachiman-Zaka Slope While Kyoto's Ninnenzaka and Sanneizaka may steal the spotlight, Hakodate's  Hachiman-Zaka Slope  offers a unique charm all its own. Its harborside location sets it apart, unfolding breathtaking panoramic views at night that surpass its daytime beauty. As dusk descends on Hakodate, Hachiman-Zaka Slope transforms from a charming historical lane into a captivating evening spectacle. The once vibrant cityscape softens, bathed in the warm glow of twilight. From Daylight Exploration to Evening Serenity After visiting  Hachiman-Zaka Slope  and its surroundings during the day, I returned in the evening. The experience undergoes a transformation, shifting from the vibrant daytime scene to the tranquil evening atmosphere. Illuminated churches and the cityscape become the highlights. It's an invitation to pause, absorb the splendor, and create unforgettable memories. The Traditional Torii ...

Panoramic Views from Hachiman-Zaka Slope Hachiman-Zaka Slope , a jewel in Hakodate's crown, isn't just a street – it's a time capsule. This historic incline, paved with stone since the 19th century, offers a charming walk through Hakodate's past. As you ascend, breathtaking panoramic views of the harbor and city unfold, especially captivating in the evening. Free and open to all,  Hachiman-Zaka Slope  is a must-visit for any Hakodate adventure. A Daytime Stroll to Hachiman-Zaka Slope On my recent trip to Hakodate, I enjoyed a scenic walk uphill to visit Hachiman-Zaka Slope twice: once during the daytime and again in the evening. Starting from Hakodate Park on April 20, 2024, I passed by several interesting landmarks along the way, including Hakodate Gokoku Shrine , Mt. Hakodate Ropeway - Mountain Base Station , Motomachi Water Distribution Station , and the beautiful Hakodate Orthodox Church . The photos below capture the beauty of this daytime ascent to  Hachiman-Zaka...