I visited Abashiri Prison!!

Abashiri Prison, located in Abashiri City, Hokkaido, is a historical prison established during the Meiji era. Initially, it was used for prisoners to engage in the development of Hokkaido under harsh conditions. Prisoners were particularly utilized as labor for constructing railways and roads in the undeveloped areas of Hokkaido, and life in the severe natural environment was extremely tough. History and Role Abashiri Prison was opened in 1890, and prisoners mainly engaged in the development of Hokkaido. Notably, prisoners known as the 'Five Men of Abashiri Prison' advanced the construction of the road from Abashiri to Asahikawa (known as the Prisoners' Road), significantly contributing to the development of Hokkaido. Current Abashiri Prison Today, part of Abashiri Prison is open to the public as the 'Abashiri Prison Museum,' where visitors can learn about the history of Japanese prisons, the lives of prisoners, and the development of Hokkaido. The museum features restored wooden buildings, tools used by prisoners, and exhibits recreating life inside the prison, making it a popular spot for many tourists.