Hokkaido Experience Ainu Culture at Upopoy National Museum

Hokkaido , Japan

Hokkaido Experience Ainu Culture at Upopoy National Museum

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About this experience

Discover the rich heritage of the Ainu, Hokkaido's Indigenous people, on this guided 3-hour tour of Upopoy, the National Ainu Museum and Park. Learn about the Ainu's unique customs, language, and traditions while engaging with their history through interactive experiences, including playing traditional musical instruments and enjoying live performances. This immersive tour highlights the Ainu's journey towards cultural revival and identity in modern Japan, making it a must-see for anyone keen to understand this vibrant culture.

- Guided 3-hour exploration of the National Ainu Museum and Park
- Hands-on activities including Ainu musical instruments and performances
- Insightful commentary from a local Hokkaido guide
- An essential experience for those interested in Indigenous cultures

Available options

Hokkaido Experience Ainu Culture at Upopoy National Museum

What's included

Guided tour of Upopoy, the National Ainu Museum and Park

Traditional performances of Ainu song and dance

Hands-on activities with Ainu musical instruments

Detailed itinerary

Upopoy, the National Ainu Museum and Park, is Japan’s first national facility dedicated to the Indigenous Ainu people of Hokkaido. Upopoy means “singing in a large group” in Ainu, symbolizing harmony.

The site features a modern museum, open-air spaces, and hands-on programs. Exhibits cover Ainu language, music, clothing, hunting, beliefs, rituals, and their journey from trade and assimilation to recognition in 2019, while also highlighting how Ainu culture continues to thrive into the future.

Visitors can also enjoy performances of traditional songs and dances, craft demonstrations, and try Ainu instruments—experiences that make the culture come alive.

Located in Shiraoi, about an hour from Sapporo, Upopoy is the best place to explore Ainu heritage and reflect on cultural coexistence in Japan today.

What's not included

Private transportation

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 4.0

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Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

The meeting point is in front of the Entrance Building Shop. Your guide will be waiting with a yellow sign. Please refer to the map for details.

About Hokkaido

Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, hot springs, and world-class ski resorts. With its vast wilderness areas, fresh seafood, and unique Ainu culture, Hokkaido offers a distinct experience from the rest of Japan.

Top Attractions

Sapporo Beer Museum

A museum dedicated to the history of beer in Japan, located in the birthplace of Sapporo Beer.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free

Otaru Canal

A picturesque canal lined with historic warehouses, now home to shops and restaurants.

Historical 2-3 hours Free to walk around

Niseko United

A world-famous ski resort known for its powder snow and excellent skiing conditions.

Adventure Full day Expensive

Shiretoko National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its pristine wilderness and diverse wildlife.

Nature Full day or overnight Moderate

Must-Try Local Dishes

Sapporo Ramen

A rich, miso-based ramen with a hearty pork broth, topped with corn, butter, and local ingredients.

Dinner Contains meat and dairy

Genghis Khan (Jingisukan)

Grilled lamb or mutton, cooked on a dome-shaped grill, often served with vegetables and dipping sauces.

Dinner Contains meat

Ikura Don

A bowl of rice topped with salmon roe, often served with soy sauce and other accompaniments.

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish

Soups Curry

A thick, hearty curry stew with vegetables and meat, served in a large pot and eaten with bread or rice.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat and dairy

Popular Activities

Skiing and snowboarding Hiking Wildlife viewing Onsen (hot spring) bathing Shopping Dining Visiting museums and historical sites Experiencing local festivals

Best Time to Visit

Summer (June to August) and Winter (December to February)

Summer offers pleasant weather for hiking and outdoor activities, while winter is perfect for skiing and snowboarding. Both seasons attract the highest number of tourists.

20-25°C (Summer), -5 to 5°C (Winter) 68-77°F (Summer), 23-41°F (Winter)

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

JST (GMT+9)

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Hokkaido is generally safe, with low crime rates. However, travelers should exercise caution in crowded areas and be aware of potential natural hazards, such as earthquakes and heavy snowfall.

Important Precautions:

• Use licensed taxis and insist on the meter being used.
• Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas.
• Be cautious when using ATMs, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

Getting there

By air

New Chitose Airport • 40 km from Sapporo
Okadama Airport • 10 km from Sapporo

By train

Sapporo Station

By bus

Sapporo Station Bus Terminal, Susukino Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Efficient and punctual, with options for day passes and rail passes.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Sapporo Station Area Susukino Odori Park

Day trips

Hakodate

240 km from Sapporo • Full day

A historic port city known for its well-preserved Meiji-era buildings, seafood, and stunning views of the Tsugaru Strait.

Furano

140 km from Sapporo • Full day

A charming town known for its lavender fields, cheese factories, and scenic landscapes.

Noboribetsu

120 km from Sapporo • Full day

A popular hot spring resort town known for its geothermal activity and healing waters.

Festivals

Sapporo Snow Festival • Early February Lavender Festival • July Nebuta Matsuri • Early August

Pro tips

Visit during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) to avoid crowds and enjoy pleasant weather.
Try local specialties, such as Sapporo ramen, Genghis Khan (Jingisukan), and fresh seafood.
Experience a traditional ryokan (inn) with onsen (hot spring) baths for a unique cultural experience.
Explore Hokkaido's national parks and wilderness areas for stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities.
Learn a few basic Japanese phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.