Hokkaido University Museum, Sapporo - a building with a tree in front
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Hokkaido University Museum Sapporo

4.5
·3k reviews·Sapporo, Japan

Free-admission campus museum with diverse science, history, and natural history exhibits.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more space

CrowdLow
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Hokkaido University Museum, Sapporo - a building with a tree in front

Hokkaido University Museum Sapporo

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more space

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Free-admission campus museum with diverse science, history, and natural history exhibits.

4.5
(3k reviews)

"A pretty good museum that admits anyone free of charge. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Free Entry, Big Value

Enjoy a wealth of knowledge without spending a yen! Perfect for curious minds of all ages.

🗣️ English Info Available

Most exhibits offer English explanations, making it accessible for international visitors.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Dinosaur Discoveries

Dinosaur Discoveries

Paleontology Exhibit

See fossils of newly identified dinosaurs, like Paralitherizinosaurus japonicus, unearthed in Hokkaido.

Instagram
Ancient Plant Garden

Ancient Plant Garden

Botanical Garden (adjacent)

Explore 'living fossils' like Ginkgo trees and cycads that have survived for millions of years.

TikTok
Diverse Scientific Collections

Diverse Scientific Collections

Various Floors

From preserved insects to anatomical models and minerals, discover a wide range of scientific wonders.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Free Admission, Big Discoveries

This gem offers free entry, making it a fantastic budget-friendly option. Explore diverse exhibits from paleontology to medicine across three floors. Most displays have English information, so don't worry about language barriers! Reddit+1

Timing Your Visit

While free, the museum can get busy. Consider visiting on weekdays to avoid larger crowds. Allow at least an hour to fully appreciate the varied collections, from ancient plants to dinosaur fossils. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more space
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Still manageable crowds
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

I checked out the Ancient Plant Garden at KU's Museum of Biodiversity! They have incredible 'living fossils' like the Ginkgo tree, cycads, and horsetails—plants that have been around for millions of years. A must-see for any nature lover! #fyp #paleontology #paleobotany #museum #plants
@paleoprairie
43.3K likes • 276.2K views

🎯 Free Entry, Big Value

Enjoy a wealth of knowledge without spending a yen! Perfect for curious minds of all ages. Reddit+1

🗣️ English Info Available

Most exhibits offer English explanations, making it accessible for international visitors. Reddit

A new species of therizinosaurid has been identified from fossilized claws unearthed in Hokkaido, Japan: Paralitherizinosaurus japonicus. Two of scientists in this study: Yoshitsugu Kobayashi (Hokkaido University Museum) and Anthony R. Fiorillo (Southern Methodist University) explained the significance of this groundbreaking discovery. . . Watch the full video on the discovery’S significance on ou...
hokkaidouni
247 likes • 0 views
More fish skin pictures for our fish skin lovers and crafters all over the world from yesterday’s focus group with @parduejune at Hokkaido university Botanical Garden and Museum with Masaru Kato. All our gratitude to all the institutions that have made this field trip possible. #japanfoundation #csm #ual #smithsonian #arcticstudiescenter #nmnh #fishskin
elisapalominop
100 likes • 0 views

🚶‍♂️ Easy Campus Walk

Just a 10-minute stroll from Sapporo JR Station, easily accessible on foot. Reddit

🍦 Don't Miss the Ice Cream!

The cafe at the end offers surprisingly good ice cream – a sweet treat after exploring! Reddit

More fish skin pictures for our fish skin lovers and crafters all over the world from yesterday’s focus group with @parduejune at Hokkaido university Botanical Garden and Museum with Masaru Kato. All our gratitude to all the institutions that have made this field trip possible. #japanfoundation #csm #ual #smithsonian #arcticstudiescenter #nmnh #fishskin
fishskinlab
76 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Free Entry, Big Value

Enjoy a wealth of knowledge without spending a yen! Perfect for curious minds of all ages. Reddit+1

🗣️ English Info Available

Most exhibits offer English explanations, making it accessible for international visitors. Reddit

🚶‍♂️ Easy Campus Walk

Just a 10-minute stroll from Sapporo JR Station, easily accessible on foot. Reddit

🍦 Don't Miss the Ice Cream!

The cafe at the end offers surprisingly good ice cream – a sweet treat after exploring! Reddit

🐛 Edible Insect Snacks

For the adventurous, the gift shop sells edible insects – a unique souvenir! Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Hokkaido University Museum for its free admission and surprisingly diverse range of exhibits, covering everything from dinosaurs to medicine. While some note a mildew smell, the availability of English information and the unique offerings like edible insects make it a worthwhile and engaging experience for all ages. Reddit+2

"When we came here, they had a special exhibit combining beautifully preserved insects with their print counterparts in illustrated scientific publications. Super nice! Entrance is free and lots of information available. Although most are in Japanese, it's still a nice museum in the middle of the city."

Jeff McD

"Free admission in the middle of campus. 3 floors with a nice variety of stuff to see. You got the uni's history, biology, space, science, medicines (pharmaceutical and diseases), archeology, anatomy, insects, minerals/rocks, and more.

There is a mildew smell when entering the building, so you might need to get used to that. Small gift shop and cafe at the end. Included edible insects for sale."

Tommy On

"A pretty good museum that admits anyone free of charge. Besides history of the university, the museum is a collection of various categories of items likely from efforts of the many different departments of the university. You could easily spend 1 hour in there if you take your time to look through most rooms, spread over 3 floors. Pretty accessible from Sapporo JR station ~ 10 minutes walk."

kyczzz

What People Like

Free admission
Diverse exhibits
English information

What People Dislike

Mildew smell

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

It's a pleasant 10-minute walk from Sapporo JR Station. Head towards the university campus and follow signs for the museum. Reddit

While the museum itself is free, parking on the university campus may incur fees. It's generally recommended to use public transport or walk from Sapporo Station. Reddit

Yes, several bus routes stop near Hokkaido University. The closest train station is Sapporo JR Station, which is a short walk away. Reddit

The museum is spread across three floors. While efforts are made for accessibility, it's advisable to check with the museum directly for specific facilities like elevators. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, but it's typically open during regular business hours on weekdays. It's best to check the official Hokkaido University Museum website for the most up-to-date information. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission to the Hokkaido University Museum is completely free! This makes it an excellent value for visitors. Reddit+1

No, advance booking is not required as admission is free. You can simply walk in during opening hours. Reddit

The museum often hosts special exhibitions, such as the one featuring insects and their scientific illustrations. Keep an eye on their website for announcements. Reddit

There is no specific dress code, but it's a university museum, so casual and comfortable attire is appropriate. Reddit

Generally, re-entry policies can vary. It's best to inquire at the information desk upon your first entry if you plan to leave and return. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Expect a diverse range covering university history, biology, space, science, medicine, archaeology, anatomy, insects, minerals, and more. Reddit

Yes, the museum offers interactive exhibits and a wide variety of displays that can engage children, making it a family-friendly destination. Reddit

You can easily spend an hour or more exploring the three floors of exhibits. If you're particularly interested, you could spend longer. Reddit

Yes, the museum features some interactive elements that enhance the learning experience for visitors. Reddit

Some visitors have noted a mildew smell upon entering. This is a common characteristic of older buildings and may be something to be aware of. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a cafe located at the end of the museum where you can purchase refreshments. Reddit+1

The cafe offers ice cream, which is highly recommended by visitors, and potentially other light snacks or beverages. Reddit

Hokkaido University campus has various eateries and cafes, offering more dining choices if the museum cafe doesn't suit your needs. Reddit

It's generally not recommended to consume outside food and drinks inside museum exhibits. Please check with the museum staff for their specific policy. Reddit

For the adventurous, the small gift shop at the end of the museum sells edible insects. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed in most areas of the museum, but it's always a good idea to look for 'No Photography' signs, especially for specific exhibits. Reddit

Flash photography is often discouraged or prohibited in museums to protect delicate exhibits. Please be mindful of this. Reddit

The dinosaur fossils, the ancient plant displays, and the detailed insect collections offer great photographic opportunities. TikTokInstagram

Tripods and selfie sticks can sometimes obstruct pathways or other visitors. It's best to use them discreetly or avoid them if the museum is crowded. Reddit

The museum itself has many interesting displays. The surrounding Hokkaido University campus also offers beautiful architecture and green spaces for photos. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Hokkaido University Museum is a fantastic, free outing for families. Its interactive exhibits and diverse displays, from dinosaurs to insects, are sure to capture children's imaginations. Reddit+1 The Ancient Plant Garden also offers a unique educational experience. While there's a cafe with good ice cream, consider packing snacks as dining options might be limited. Reddit The museum's accessibility and the availability of English information make it a stress-free visit for parents. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

This museum is a budget traveler's dream! With free admission, you can immerse yourself in a world of science, history, and natural wonders without spending a yen. Reddit+1 It's easily accessible from Sapporo Station, saving on transportation costs. Reddit Pack your own lunch or grab an affordable ice cream from the cafe to keep costs down. Reddit

🔬 Science Enthusiasts

For anyone with a passion for science, the Hokkaido University Museum is a must-visit. Explore cutting-edge paleontological discoveries, delve into botanical wonders, and discover the breadth of research conducted at the university across fields like medicine, anatomy, and space science. TikTokInstagramReddit The detailed exhibits and the opportunity to see scientific specimens up close will be incredibly rewarding. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Natural History Collections

The Hokkaido University Museum boasts an impressive array of natural history exhibits, drawing from the university's extensive research. Visitors can marvel at dinosaur fossils, including newly identified species like Paralitherizinosaurus japonicus, a testament to Hokkaido's paleontological significance. Instagram The museum also showcases a fascinating collection of preserved insects, often displayed alongside their scientific illustrations, offering a unique glimpse into entomology. Instagram+1

Beyond the more dramatic displays, the museum delves into the world of botany with its adjacent Ancient Plant Garden. Here, you can encounter 'living fossils' such as Ginkgo trees and cycads, plants that have persisted through geological ages. TikTok These exhibits provide a tangible connection to Earth's ancient past and the resilience of life. The sheer variety, from microscopic minerals to ancient flora, makes for a comprehensive natural history experience. Reddit

A Glimpse into University Life and Science

Beyond natural history, the Hokkaido University Museum offers a broad spectrum of exhibits reflecting the diverse academic disciplines within the university. You can explore the history of Hokkaido University itself, understanding its development and contributions to academia. Reddit The museum also dedicates sections to medicine, covering pharmaceutical advancements and the study of diseases, as well as archaeology and anatomy, providing insights into human history and biology. Reddit

For those interested in the cosmos, there are exhibits on space and science, offering a look at astronomical discoveries and scientific principles. The museum aims to be comprehensive, with each department contributing its own exhibition. This multi-faceted approach ensures that visitors, whether they are science enthusiasts or casual tourists, can find something to pique their interest. Reddit The inclusion of interactive elements further enhances engagement, making complex scientific concepts more accessible. Reddit

Navigating the Museum Experience

The Hokkaido University Museum is spread across three floors, offering a substantial amount of content to explore. While the museum is free, some visitors have noted a distinct mildew smell upon entering, which might be a consideration for sensitive individuals. Reddit Despite this, the overall experience is highly regarded, with many praising the breadth of information available. Reddit

Most of the exhibitions provide English information, which is a significant plus for international visitors, making the museum accessible and informative. Reddit The museum also features a small gift shop and cafe at the end, where you can find unique items like edible insects and highly recommended ice cream. Reddit+1 Allow at least an hour to fully appreciate the diverse collections, and consider visiting on a weekday to avoid larger crowds. Reddit

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