Ainu Cultural Experience

Ainu Cultural Experience

Discover the ancient history of Hokkaido at the Upopoy Ainu National Museum and Park. Learn more about the fascinating Ainu culture and history of the indigenous Ainu community of Hokkaido. The museum provides insights into the distinctive culture and spiritual beliefs they hold, as well as highlighting the diversity of contemporary Ainu culture.

During your visit, you can enjoy the performances of Ainu ancient rite dancing, the mukkuri (mouth harp), and the tonkori (five-stringed instrument) designated as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. You may also participate in a hunting experience, Ainu workshops such as wood-crafting, or Ainu cooking classes using local ingredients. This experience is great fun for all ages. We highly recommend spending a whole day as there are many more things for you to explore. This is an adventure you can enjoy all year round.

Important Information
  • Upopoy Ainu National Museum and Park is located in Shiraoi (about a 1.5 hour drive from the hotel). Please contact our concierge if you would like to book a taxi.
  • Separate tickets are required for Upopoy and the museum exhibitions.
  • Entry to museum exhibitions must be booked in advance through the official website. An entry ticket to Upopoy is also recommended to be booked in advance.
  • Some activities and shows may not be available during different periods. Please check the timetable here.
Opening Hours
1 April – 18 July 2025 09:00 – 18:00
*Open 09:00 – 20:00 from 26 April – 6 May
19 July – 31 August 2025 09:00 – 20:00
1 September – 31 October 2025 09:00 – 18:00
*Open 09:00 – 20:00 on 13 – 15, 20 – 21, and 23 September
1 November 2025 – 31 March 2026 09:00 – 17:00

*Last entry to Upopoy is one hour before closing; last entry to the museum is 30 minutes before Upopoy closes.
Closed on Mondays, from 29 December – 5 January and from 28 February – 9 March.
*When Monday is a holiday, open on Monday and closed on the next business day
*Open on 28 April, 12 August, 16 September, and 22 September.

Prices
Adult ¥1,200
High School Student (16 to 18 years) ¥600
Junior high school student and under (15 years and under) Free of charge

*Certain activities and special exhibitions in the museum are not included in the prices.

Upopoy National Ainu Museum and Park