Kawamura Kaneto Ainu Memorial Museum — Attraction in Asahikawa

Less advertised on websites talking about places to visit in Asahikawa but a definite recommendation! It is run by Ainu descendants themselves from a generational hand down since the original founder in the late 1800s to foster understanding of the Ainu culture. It was very interesting. They also hand out a mini book worth of information in pamphlet form covering everything from history to religion, dance, clothing and more. If you have to choose between this and the Asahikawa city museum due to time, just would choose...

A great exhibition of Asahikawa's Ainu Heritage. It's all combined inside a whole house that was built under imitation of an authentic Ainu house. There were carved wooden sculptures, embroidered clothes, Ainu hunting and daily tools, animal models and so on. The guide wasn't so supportive so the only information I could get was from some printed glossaries and automatic video. The museum also offers Ainu and Asappy souvenirs, as well as Ainu clothes for visitors to try on (with...

I can't recommend this place enough if you're genuinely interested in learning about the Ainu through the Ainu themselves. A small family museum with a highly personal history, shared through some of the most beautiful storytelling I've read while traveling Hokkaido. The pieces and exhibits are beautiful for sure, but take the time to read and truly take in all the descriptions of life, history and culture and you'll be glad you took the trip - whatever else you're in...