Goryokaku Tower will be carrying out a full exterior repainting of the tower structure, as well as repair and renovation work on the neck section located directly beneath the observatory, which connects the tower shaft to the observatory.

Twenty years have passed since the tower was completed in 2006. Due to aging, deterioration and peeling of the exterior paint have become noticeable. In addition, repairs and replacement of metal components in the neck section are necessary to maintain the structure in a safe condition.

For the tower repainting work, a unique construction method will be used instead of the conventional approach of erecting scaffolding around the entire building. A gondola will be suspended by wires from the neck section and moved up and down along the tower exterior to perform the work. This method is being adopted for the first time in Japan.

Although the work will take place during a period when many tourists visit Hakodate, Goryokaku Tower will remain open and operate as usual throughout the construction period.

Scope of Work

1. Full repainting of the tower exterior
2. Repair and renovation of the observatory neck section

Construction Period

May 19, 2026 (Tue) – November 15, 2026 (Sun) (scheduled)
* Surveys and inspections will be conducted during June and July.
* Actual construction work is scheduled to begin in early August.

Contractor

Shimizu Corporation, Hokkaido Branch