Upopoy National Ainu Museum Sapporo
Discover the rich heritage of Japan's indigenous Ainu people through immersive exhibits, traditional performances, and a recreated village.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid crowds, catch performances
Upopoy National Ainu Museum Sapporo
Best Time
Avoid crowds, catch performances
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the rich heritage of Japan's indigenous Ainu people through immersive exhibits, traditional performances, and a recreated village.
"A truly exceptional museum providing deep knowledge and interactive experiences of Ainu culture."
🎯 Check Performance Schedule
Prioritize seeing the traditional dances and music shows; check the website for times!
⏰ Arrive Early
To get good seats for performances and avoid the biggest crowds, aim to arrive when it opens.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cultural Exchange Hall Performances
Cultural Exchange Hall
Witness captivating traditional Ainu songs, dances, and music that beautifully showcase their rich heritage.
Reconstructed Ainu Village (Kotan)
Outdoor village area
Step back in time by exploring traditional Ainu houses (cise) and experiencing a replicated village setting.
Interactive Workshops
Various workshop areas
Engage hands-on with Ainu crafts, language, and traditions for a deeper cultural understanding.
Lake Poroto Shoreline
Adjacent to the museum
Enjoy a peaceful stroll along the lake, offering beautiful natural scenery and a calming atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Allocate Ample Time for Immersion
Plan Your Transportation
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Performance Schedule
Prioritize seeing the traditional dances and music shows; check the website for times!
⏰ Arrive Early
To get good seats for performances and avoid the biggest crowds, aim to arrive when it opens.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the extensive outdoor village and museum grounds.
📚 Engage with Exhibits
The museum offers deep insights into Ainu history and culture; take your time to read and learn.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Performance Schedule
Prioritize seeing the traditional dances and music shows; check the website for times!
⏰ Arrive Early
To get good seats for performances and avoid the biggest crowds, aim to arrive when it opens.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the extensive outdoor village and museum grounds.
📚 Engage with Exhibits
The museum offers deep insights into Ainu history and culture; take your time to read and learn.
🛍️ Explore Gift Shops
Find unique Ainu crafts and souvenirs. Some shops offer great products.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Upopoy for its exceptional and immersive presentation of Ainu culture, highlighting the engaging performances, interactive workshops, and the beautifully reconstructed village. The educational value and the serene lakeside setting are also frequently mentioned positives. Some note that a full day is needed to fully appreciate everything, and checking performance schedules is key.
"The first time I heard about the Ainu people was about 2 years ago. Over time, I got more information and when I planned to travel to Hokkaido, I just couldn’t miss visiting the Upopoy National Ainu Museum. There are a few ways to reach the place. I took a train from Sapporo station to Shiraoi station, which took me about an hour.
It’s better to dedicate a whole day to exploring the whole Museum complex and park and dive deeper into the Ainu culture. You have a chance to observe traditional Ainu buildings, try to wear traditional Ainu clothes, learn their language or attend the craft workshops. There’s also the Cultural Exchange Hall, where you can watch a short film about Ainu culture. Take some time to walk around the park to enjoy the nature and the lake landscape.
Don’t worry about the tickets, you can buy them at the ticket desk or ticket vending machine at the entrance. The place is highly recommended for visiting."
Sergey Кulik
"We found this museum to be truly exceptional. It not only provides a lot of knowledge about the Ainu and their past and present culture but is is also very interactive and immersive. We saw a dance and music show in the grand hall that was very impressive and loved walking the reconstructed Ainu houses. When looking for English books on Ainu, two ladies in the library went out of their way to help us. Also there are numerous good eating options and two sizeable gift shops."
Ingo Meyer (ingoism)
"I visited on the Cultural day so it was free!!!
I didn’t expect to get free access but seems a lucky day indeed. The artists were good at reflecting the Ainu culture through costumes, dances, musical instruments & so many things. It is better if you go there in the morning. Check the JR schedule & make plans ahead of visiting there otherwise you’ve to wait long time for the train. Definitely a place worth visiting."
Md Ishtiak Rashid
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way is to take a JR train from Sapporo Station to Shiraoi Station, which takes about an hour. From Shiraoi Station, it's a short taxi ride or a walk to the museum.
Yes, it's a popular day trip. Many visitors take the train from Sapporo, spend several hours at the museum, and return in the afternoon.
Yes, driving is an option, and renting a car can allow you to explore other sights in the area. Parking is available at the museum.
If you're heading to Noboribetsu or Lake Toya, Upopoy can be visited on the same day as it's located along that route.
Check the JR train schedules carefully to plan your journey and avoid long waiting times.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission is ¥1,000. However, there are sometimes special 'Cultural Days' where entry might be free. It's best to check their official website for the most current pricing and any special offers.
Tickets can be purchased at the ticket desk or from ticket vending machines at the entrance of the museum complex.
While not always advertised, keep an eye out for special event days or promotions. One visitor mentioned getting free access on a 'Cultural Day'.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's highly recommended to check the official Upopoy website for the most up-to-date information on operating hours before your visit.
Generally, advance booking isn't required for regular visits, as tickets can be bought on-site. However, for special events or group visits, it might be advisable to inquire.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors recommend dedicating at least 3-4 hours, with many suggesting a full day to fully immerse in the exhibits, performances, and workshops. +1
Don't miss the traditional Ainu songs and dances in the Cultural Exchange Hall, exploring the reconstructed Ainu village (kotan), and participating in interactive workshops.
Some performances have English subtitles, but not all. While the museum exhibits have information, having a basic understanding or using translation apps can be helpful.
You can watch traditional performances, participate in craft workshops, learn about Ainu language and history, and explore the outdoor village.
Yes, Upopoy offers interactive experiences and cultural learning that can be engaging for all ages. The outdoor space is also great for kids to explore.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are dining options within the museum complex, offering a chance to try local flavors.
Dining options typically include local Hokkaido specialties. Some visitors have enjoyed meals there, though specific menus can vary.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally best to check the official policy regarding outside food. However, there are on-site options available.
Yes, besides full dining, there are often cafes or snack bars where you can grab a coffee or a light bite.
If you venture out, Shiraoi town offers local eateries. However, many find the on-site dining sufficient for a day visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed in most areas, especially outdoors and in the village. However, always be mindful of signs and ask if unsure, particularly during performances.
The reconstructed Ainu houses (cise), the traditional performances, and the scenic views of Lake Poroto offer excellent photo opportunities.
It's important to be respectful. While performers are often photographed, always ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals, especially outside of scheduled performances.
Drone usage is typically restricted at cultural sites and national parks to ensure safety and preserve the atmosphere. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is good for general shots. If you plan to capture performances, a telephoto lens might be useful, but a standard zoom is usually sufficient.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Interactive workshops, where kids can try their hand at crafts or learn simple Ainu phrases, provide a fun and educational experience. The cultural performances, with their vibrant music and dance, are also usually a hit with children. The spacious outdoor grounds around Lake Poroto offer room to run and explore, making it a well-rounded outing.
📚 Culture Enthusiasts & History Buffs
The opportunity to witness and even participate in traditional Ainu ceremonies, music, and crafts offers an unparalleled immersive experience. Many visitors who are passionate about indigenous cultures find Upopoy to be exceptionally well-done and highly educational, often spending an entire day to absorb all it has to offer.
🚶 Solo Travelers & Budget Explorers
While the admission fee is ¥1,000, the value for money is high given the extensive exhibits and performances. For budget-conscious travelers, checking for any 'Cultural Days' that might offer free admission can be a great way to save. The immersive nature of the site means you can easily spend hours there, making it a worthwhile investment for a day's exploration.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Ainu Culture at Upopoy
Visitors can explore a meticulously recreated Ainu village (kotan), complete with traditional houses (cise), offering a tangible glimpse into their ancestral way of life. The indoor exhibition halls provide in-depth information about Ainu history, spirituality, art, and their relationship with nature. Interactive displays and hands-on workshops allow for a deeper, more personal connection with Ainu heritage, making it an educational and engaging experience for all ages.
The site also hosts regular cultural performances, including traditional songs, dances, and music played on unique Ainu instruments. These performances are a highlight for many visitors, offering a vibrant and moving experience that showcases the artistic richness of the Ainu people. Beyond the exhibits and performances, the surrounding natural landscape, including Lake Poroto, adds to the serene and contemplative atmosphere of Upopoy.
Navigating Your Visit: Time and Logistics
Getting to Upopoy involves a train journey from Sapporo to Shiraoi Station, which takes approximately one hour. From Shiraoi Station, it's a short taxi ride or a walk to the museum. It's important to check the JR train schedules in advance to ensure smooth travel and avoid lengthy waits. For those looking to combine their visit with other attractions, Upopoy is conveniently located for day trips to places like Noboribetsu or Lake Toya.
When you arrive, purchase your tickets at the entrance. Comfortable footwear is highly recommended as you'll be exploring a large outdoor area and museum. The site offers dining options and gift shops, so you can easily spend several hours here without needing to leave for meals.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit