Upopoy Ainu National Museum

Upopoy Ainu National Museum

2 of 9 in Noboribetsu

Upopoy National Ainu Museum (ウポポイ, meaning "singing together" in the Ainu language) is the premier destination for exploring the rich culture and heritage of the Ainu, Japan’s indigenous people. Situated near Lake Poroto, the museum offers a variety of exhibits that highlight the traditional lifestyle, customs, and crafts of the Ainu people. Visitors can immerse themselves in Ainu history through permanent exhibitions and a video theater that brings their cultural narrative to life. Additionally, the museum hosts special exhibitions throughout the year, providing new insights into the evolving story of the Ainu.

The museum is set within a large park that brings Ainu culture to life in an interactive and engaging way. Visitors can enjoy live performances of Ainu dance and music, experience hands-on activities such as Ainu craft-making and cooking, and explore reconstructed Ainu houses. Traditional ceremonies are held, where visitors have the opportunity to dress in authentic Ainu costumes and partake in cultural rituals, offering a deeper connection to the Ainu’s way of life. This immersive experience makes Upopoy a truly unique cultural adventure.

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Hours and Fees

Upopoy Ainu National Museum
  • Opening hours
  • 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (until 8:00 PM on weekends, public holidays and during the summer holidays; until 5:00 PM from November to March)

  • Closed
  • Mondays (or the following day if Monday is a public holiday)
    New Year holidays

  • Entrance fee
  • 1200 yen (advance reservations are required for entering the museum)

Getting there

Google Maps

The Upopoy Museum is located in Shiraoi, near Noboribetsu, about 100 km south of Sapporo. It’s a 10-15 minute walk east from Shiraoi Station.

By train, it takes 25 minutes from Noboribetsu (440 yen) or just over an hour from Sapporo (3,000 yen for limited express or 2,100 yen for local trains). Some buses from Sapporo and New Chitose Airport to Noboribetsu Onsen also stop at Upopoy, although most services have stopped after the pandemic. A daily bus from the airport to Upopoy costs 850 yen. Local buses from Noboribetsu take 45 minutes and cost 720 yen.

Resources

English
Japanese

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