Exploring the Hokkaido Museum: A Guide

This place is written as [北海道博物館] in Japanese.

The Hokkaido Museum is dedicated to showcasing the rich history and culture of Hokkaido. Visitors can gain a profound understanding of Hokkaido’s essence. It stands as the largest museum highlighting Hokkaido’s history and natural heritage.

Open

  • May – Sep : 09:30 – 17:00
  • Oct – Apr : 09:30 – 16:30
  • Close: Monday, a weekday after holiday and new year’s days

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The museum is situated in the eastern part of Sapporo City, known as ‘Nopporo’ (野幌), amidst the expansive virgin forest of ‘Nopporo Shinrin Koen’ (野幌森林公園). Nearby, visitors can explore several attractions including the Nopporo Forest Park, Historical Village of Hokkaido, Nopporo Forest Park Visitors’ Center, and the Centennial Memorial Tower.

Of particular interest is the Historical Village of Hokkaido, located adjacent to the museum, renowned for its faithful reproduction of towns from the Meiji to the early Showa eras in Hokkaido. This site features numerous shops, homes, and government buildings that offer visitors the opportunity to explore interiors and participate in various events.

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The museum features five main themes covering prehistory, local residents such as the Ainu, nature, various animals, and more.

Take your time exploring the museum and its surrounding facilities—you can easily spend a whole day enjoying everything they have to offer.

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Hiroshi Mizukoshi painter / writer