Another museum crossed our path, the Otaru Museum of History and Nature. Here we saw scenes and sections similar to the Hokkaido Museum from two days earlier, featuring the history of the Ainu, the colonization of Ezochi, and the first settlements in Otaru.
It was touching to see a small dog named Bunkō, a dog from the Otaru fire department. There was a newspaper clipping from 1923 with his picture. He was the first to jump on the pump truck, kept onlookers away, and untangled hoses. He was an idol in Otaru and much loved by the residents. He died of old age on February 3, 1938. He received a firefighter's funeral, and the citizens gave him some of his favorite sweets as a tribute.
We were able to see representations of old houses and shops. We even got to talk on a wind-up telephone across a room! This time, we were able to take a leisurely look at the nature area, which also had a...
Read moreThe Otaru Museum of History and Nature is a hidden gem in Otaru, offering a fascinating look into the region's history and natural beauty. Located in a former bank building, the museum features exhibits that cover everything from Otaru's maritime past to the area's unique flora and fauna.
I particularly enjoyed the displays on the city's role as a major port during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, as well as the section dedicated to the local natural environment. There are also some great hands-on exhibits that are fun for all ages, making it a great spot for families.
The museum also highlights Otaru's traditional crafts, like its famous glassware and music boxes, adding a nice local touch. It’s a relatively small museum, but definitely worth a visit if you’re interested in learning more about the area. Highly recommend if...
Read moreOtaru City General Museum Canal Museum is a place for those who want to learn more about the history of Otaru. The museum is located on the opposite side of Otaru Canal and is housed in an old warehouse. The museum has two major exhibitions that are both informative and engaging. The first exhibition takes you through the history of Otaru and how people lived in the city. It also shows how the city has evolved over time. The second exhibition showcases the natural life around the city and how people lived during the Jomon period.
The museum takes around 30 minutes to an hour to explore, depending on your pace. It is highly recommended for those who want to understand more...
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