Hokkaido Museum of Northern Peoples

The Hokkaido Museum of Northern Peoples is located in Abashiri, Hokkaido, and is the only museum in Japan dedicated to the theme of 'Northern Peoples.' Opened in 1984, it is known as a facility where visitors can deeply learn about the culture, lifestyle, and history of the northern peoples living in the Arctic and subarctic regions. Features and Highlights Exhibits The museum displays a variety of materials related to the clothing, food, shelter, tools, and spiritual culture of the northern peoples. Visitors can understand the cultures of northern peoples around the world, including the Ainu, Inuit, Sami, and Chukchi, through comparative exhibits. Main Exhibits Traditional Clothing: Cold-weather garments made from reindeer and seal skins. Hunting and Fishing Tools: Bows and arrows, spears, and tools for catching fish. Housing Models: Models and actual displays of houses where northern peoples live. Interactive Exhibits There is also an interactive corner where visitors can touch the everyday tools of the northern peoples, allowing for a more realistic experience of their culture. Special Exhibits Special exhibitions with changing themes are held regularly, delving into specific topics related to northern cultures. Access Location: 309-1 Shiomi, Abashiri, Hokkaido Nearest Station: About 10 minutes by bus from Abashiri Station, or about 5 minutes by car. Other Information Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last admission at 4:30 PM) Closed: Mondays (if a holiday, the following weekday), and New Year's holidays. This museum is recommended not only for those interested in the history and culture of Hokkaido but also for those who want to deepen their knowledge of northern regions.