Historical Village of Hokkaido: A Journey Back to the Meiji Era

During my trip to Hokkaido, I made sure to include a visit to the Historical Village of Hokkaido. This open-air museum, located near Sapporo, recreates the lifestyle of Hokkaido during the Meiji, Taisho, and early Showa periods. Stepping into the village feels like traveling back a hundred years in Japan. 🏠 Old Shops and Daily Life Scenes The first thing that caught my eye was an old fabric shop. Wax figures of the shopkeeper and a female assistant behind the counter seemed to be serving customers selecting fabrics. The wooden interior, neatly arranged textiles, and soft lighting vividly evoked the bustling atmosphere of the past. In another traditional Japanese house, tatami mats covered the entire room, with a low table and tea set in the center. Old posters and a household shrine adorned the walls, creating an uncanny sense that someone had just stepped out moments ago. 🐎 The Charm of Horse-Drawn Trams One of the most unique experiences in the village is the horse-drawn tram. This mode of transportation actually existed in Sapporo during the Meiji era and has been recreated here. The horse leisurely pulls the tram along the tracks, flanked by golden autumn leaves and vintage Western-style buildings, creating a dreamy scene. 🍱 Lunchtime: Traditional Bento and Miso Soup After exploring, don’t miss the village’s restaurant, the Historical Village Cafeteria. I ordered a beautifully arranged Japanese bento, featuring grilled fish, tempura shrimp, lotus root, tamagoyaki, and three different rice balls. Paired with a steaming bowl of miso soup, it was a simple yet satisfying meal. For dessert, I enjoyed a crispy, sweet cream puff—a perfect ending! 📰 Fun Feature: Printing Your Birthdate Newspaper Near the exit, there’s a fascinating machine that prints a copy of the Hokkaido Shimbun from your birthdate! Just insert a coin, input the date, and you’ll receive your personalized “commemorative newspaper.” This thoughtful touch adds a unique memory to the cultural journey. 🌿 Conclusion: A Blend of History and Daily Life The Historical Village of Hokkaido is more than just a museum; it’s a living “stage of history.” From architecture and artifacts to culinary culture, every detail reflects the wisdom and resilience of early Hokkaido residents. If you’re interested in Japanese history and culture, this is a place where you can spend an entire afternoon exploring and appreciating.