Hokkaido Museum of Northern Peoples

Overview

The Hokkaido Museum of Northern Peoples, located in Abashiri City, Hokkaido, is a museum where you can learn about the cultures and histories of Northern ethnic groups from around the world. Established by the Hokkaido Prefectural Board of Education, it is managed by the Northern Culture Promotion Association. The museum focuses on Northern ethnic groups inhabiting the areas surrounding the Okhotsk Sea and the Arctic Ocean, including Hokkaido, the Russian Maritime Province, Alaska, Siberia, and Northern Europe (such as the Ainu and Nivkh peoples). Its purpose is to research and promote understanding of the cultures and histories of these regions and peoples. As the only museum of its kind in Japan dedicated to these ethnic groups, it houses a vast collection of invaluable materials. The exhibits showcase traditional Ainu clothing and tools, models of Ainu dwellings, Okhotsk cultural artifacts, and more. A rich collection of video materials further enhances understanding of Northern life and culture. Other attractions, such as Tentozan and the Okhotsk Ryuhyo-kan (Drift Ice Museum), are located nearby. Consider visiting these spots after your museum visit. The Hokkaido Museum of Northern Peoples is a highly recommended destination for anyone interested in learning about and deepening their understanding of Northern cultures and history.