Hokkaido Museum — Attraction in Sapporo

The Hokkaido Museum, nestled in the heart of Hokkaido’s lush surroundings, is a treasure trove of history that offers a captivating journey into the island’s past. From prehistoric times to modern-day developments, the museum masterfully intertwines natural history, archaeology, and cultural evolution, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

One of the standout exhibits is the display of mammoth bones, which immediately draws attention with its sheer scale and rarity. These ancient relics offer a glimpse into Hokkaido’s Ice Age environment, showcasing how the island was once home to incredible megafauna. The carefully reconstructed skeletons and fragments transport visitors back thousands of years, sparking awe and wonder.

The museum also boasts an impressive array of replicas of artifacts unearthed throughout the island. These include tools, pottery, and ornaments used by the indigenous Ainu people and earlier settlers. The intricate craftsmanship of these items highlights the resourcefulness and cultural richness of Hokkaido’s earliest inhabitants. Particularly fascinating is the detailed recreation of ancient dwellings, which provide insight into the daily lives and survival strategies of those who lived in Hokkaido’s harsh climate.

In addition to the prehistoric and archaeological displays, the museum delves into the natural evolution of the island, with immersive dioramas and interactive exhibits. This comprehensive approach ensures visitors leave with a deeper appreciation of Hokkaido’s unique history and environment.

The Hokkaido Museum is not just an exhibition space but a vivid storytelling hub, bringing the island’s rich past to life. Whether you’re intrigued by mammoth bones or fascinated by ancient artifacts, this museum offers a window into a world long gone yet deeply...

We bought tickets for the museum and to visit the historic village, thinking that in three hours we could see both… But the museum trapped us.

The first thing we saw was an impressive mammoth. The museum is ordered in a way that, as you advance, you are doing a travel across time.

Starting with the Gomphotheres and early Paleolithic cultures, and then exhibiting elements of the Jomon culture. It was fantastic to see the progression of stone tools and implements over time.

From the Jomon to Zoku-Jomon and Satsumon cultures. From the north, the Okhotsk culture. The Ainu culture. The pass of time leads to the advancing influence from Honshu, the Matsumae clan and the Tokugawa shogunate.

“Civilization” and the suppression of their customs. Seeing photos of Ainu people wearing clothing that wasn't their own, imposed by the newcomer, provoked the same profound sadness in me as those photos of Chile's indigenous peoples subjected to the same thing. Now civilized. Now extinct. Just another fragment of a universal history that repeats itself.

We had to hurry, as the closing hour was almost here, so the sections of modern times and nature (nooo!) were seen faster. I wish we had more time to enjoy everything here. It's an...

What a great museum! It contains information about both far and near past of Hokkaido, as well as some insight into its nature and native species. So many artifacts and reconstruction packed into a single place, with many of the panel even translated in English. It also seems quite accessible with some interactivity, making it a great experience for older kids. Finally I really appreciate the time it takes to explore the Ainu culture and the impact mainland japan had on their people. It does a way better job at covering the subject than some of the museum I visited in central Sapporo, which just seem to gloss over it and present colonisation effort in an entirely positive way.

Only reason I am not giving 5 stats is because how remote and difficult to access it is from central Sapporo. If you are not in sapporo for long or not ready to make this museum a full day affair, then other activities may be...