Hakodate
Country: Japan
Region: Asia
Period: 1868-1869
Location: 41.768611°N, 140.728889°E
Description
Hakodate is a city located on the southern tip of the island of Hokkaido, Japan. During the brief existence of the Republic of Ezo (also known as the Ezo Republic) in 1868, Hakodate was the capital. The Republic of Ezo was a short-lived state established by pro-Shogunate forces (those loyal to the Tokugawa shogunate) after the Meiji Restoration, as they sought to resist the new imperial government in Japan.
Modern Remains
Today, Hakodate is a vibrant port city known for its rich history, particularly its connections to the Republic of Ezo. The Hakodate Magistrate’s Office, the site where key events of the republic took place, and the Hakodate Goryokaku Fort, a star-shaped fortress built during the era, are important historical sites. Hakodate’s role during this turbulent time in Japanese history is remembered through monuments, museums, and the continued preservation of the Goryokaku Fort. Modern Hakodate has become a popular tourist destination, blending historical landmarks with its scenic views of the surrounding bay and mountains.