The Ultimate Guide to the Best Museums in Hokkaido!
Hokkaido is known for its rich culture, especially its fairy-tale-like wintery landscape.
Naturally, to evoke the spirit of Hokkaido, we usually mention its natural landscape and beautiful resorts.
However, the island is not just about that!
It is also home to some of the world's most iconic museums that offer a glimpse into Hokkaido's rich past and culture.
There is something for everyone, from modern art galleries to historical and musical museums.
And in this comprehensive guide, we'll take you through best museums in Hokkaido.
Let's get started!
10 Best Museums in Hokkaido
Sapporo Beer Museum
Regarded as the birthplace of Japanese beer, Sapporo Beer Museum is a popular destination in Hokkaido.
With a visit here, you can dive into the development history of beer, the brewing process and brewing equipment.
You can also taste authentic Japanese beer freshly delivered from the factory - it sounds like fun already!
Time: Tues to Sun, 11am to 6pm. Closed on Mon
Address: 9 Chome-1-1 Kita 7 Johigashi, Higashi Ward, Hokkaido 065-8633, Japan (map)
How to reach: Board the Loop 88 Factory Line bus from Odori subway station. The bus will drop you right next to the museum.
Otaru Music Box Museum
The Otaru Music Box Museum is a historical building that houses over 25,000 music boxes of more than 3,500 kinds, displayed and available for purchase.
The striking red building is not only a popular museum but is also recognised as a famous historical site. Additionally, the museum accommodates various souvenir shops.
Time: Open daily, 9am to 6pm
Address: Japan, 〒047-0015 Hokkaido, Otaru, Sumiyoshicho (map)
How to reach: A 7-minute walk from Minami-Otaru station.
Abashiri Prison Museum
The only prison museum in the country, Abashiri Prison Museum, is popular amongst tourists and opened in 1890.
It is an outdoor museum of history which depicts dark stories and offers a glimpse into the ancient times of Japan's wild frontier.
If you do decide to pay a visit, make sure you don't miss out on the fascinating design of the actual prison house - it's a real eye opener.
Time: Open daily, 9am to 5pm
Address: 1-1 Yobito, Abashiri, Hokkaido 099-2421, Japan (map)
How to reach: Board a bus from Abashiri Bus Terminal. It is a 10-minute ride followed by a 15-minute walk to the museum.
Hokkaido Museum Of Modern Art
Situated 2 kilometres from the Hokkaido downtown, the Hokkaido Museum Of Modern Art was opened in 1977.
The museum's building is covered in white tiles, offering a modern appearance.
The museum has had multiple exhibitions, including a permanent exhibition, the 'Collection Gallery', which displays the collection from different angles.
There is also special exhibition which displays colourful and unique artworks if you're looking to spruce up your feed for the Gram'.
Time: Tues to Sun, 11am to 5pm. Closed on Mon
Address: 17 Chome Kita 1 Jonishi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo (map)
How to reach: A 5-minute walk from Nishi 18-chome station.
Sapporo City Sewer Science Museum
Despite its less-than-sanitary name (get it), this popular science museum in Hokkaido teaches visitors about the functioning of sewage, enabling them to grasp the concept of the water environment in a fun and engaging way.
The museum features scaled sewerage pipes with a playful structure that captures children's attention.
Time: Tues to Sun, 9:30am to 5pm. Closed on Mon
Address: 8 Chome-1 Asabucho, Kita Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 001-0045, Japan (map)
How to reach: A 15-minute walk from Asabu station.
Chitosetsuru Sake Museum
The Chitosetsuru Sake Museum is a museum showcasing Japanese sake companies, allowing visitors to delve into the aromas and flavours of different sakes, including blueberry wine, plum wine, and other traditional Japanese varieties.
Inside the museum, you can catch a glimpse of the equipment and processes used in liquor production.
Additionally, you can explore the fascinating world of sake brewing and delve into the rich history of Chitosetsuru.
Time: Mon to Sun, 10am to 6pm
Address: Japan, 〒060-0053 Hokkaido, Sapporo, Chuo Ward, Minami 3 Johigashi, 5 Chome−2 (map)
How to reach: A 5-minute walk from Bus Centre-mae Station.
Hokkaido Historical Village
Built in 1983, Hokkaido Historical Village is an open-air outdoor museum and a park with the theme of recreating the pioneering era's culture, life, economy and industry.
With more than 50 period buildings like urban groups, fishing villages, rural groups and mountain villages, this place is definitely an experience for history buffs or culture vultures.
Time: Tues to Sun, 9am to 4:30pm. Closed on Mon
Address: Konopporo-50-1 Atsubetsucho, Atsubetsu Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 004-0006, Japan (map)
How to reach: A 13-minute drive from JR Shinrin Koen station.
Hokkaido University Museum
Located on the Sapporo campus of Hokkaido University, the Hokkaido University Museum was rebuilt in 1999, housing some of the world's most prestigious academic materials and specimens from the Meiji era to the present.
The exhibition's first floor is dedicated to academics and displays a wide collection of past and present research.
Oh, and the museum is only a 10-minute walk from the famous Sapporo Station in Hokkaido, so it's pretty convenient, too.
Time: Tues to Sun, 10am to 5pm. Closed on Mon
Address: 8 Chome Kita 10 Jonishi, Kita Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0810, Japan (map)
How to reach: A 10-minute walk from Sapporo station.
Sapporo Olympic Museum
The Sapporo Olympic Museum, nestled in Sapporo, is a captivating historical showcase of events and archives from the 1972 Winter Olympics.
Beyond its informative exhibits, the museum also provides opportunities for recreational activities like skiing and skating, inviting visitors to experience the thrill at Okurayama Ski Stadium.
Moreover, the museum features an array of winter sports-related activities and presents historical insights into the Winter Olympic Games.
Time: Open daily, 9:30am to 5pm
Address: Japan, 〒064-0958 Hokkaido, Sapporo, Chuo Ward, Miyanomori, 1274 (map)
How to reach: A 10-minute walk from the Okurayama Kyogijyo Iriguchi bus stop.
Other Ways of Making Your Hokkaido Trip Epic
Sapporo Pocket WiFi
Stay connected with your friends and family with the Sapporo Pocket WiFi. It is a compact, smart device which promises a stable and fast 4G experience. Based on your stay length, pick the most suitable time during the time of arrival and enjoy hassle-free connectivity throughout the trip.
Hokkaido Goto Sumio Museum Tickets
Nestled at the foot of Mount Tokachi, Kamifurano Town is a mesmerising town known for its natural beauty and Hokkaido Goto Sumio Museum. It is an iconic museum opened in 1997 by the Japanese painter Sumio Goto. Inside the museum, witness some of his most explicit works while tasting the delicious Hokkaido specialities.
Address: Higashi 4 Senkita, Kamifurano, Hokkaido 071-0524, Japan (map)
JR Hokkaido Rail Pass
Finding it difficult to travel in Hokkaido? Why not ease out the travelling through the JR Hokkaido Rail Pass? Exclusively designed for foreign tourists, you can explore Japan for 5 to 7 days through this pass. You can also hop onto JR buses within Hokkaido.
Noboribetsu Date Jidaimura
A theme park, Noboribetsu Date Era Village is a fun spot in Hokkaido which reproduces the appearance and the street style of the Edo period (1600-1864), ranging from experiencing the social conditions or enjoying dramas. Here, you can try authentic food from the Edo period, and of course, tea at the Japanese tea ceremony.
Address: 53-1 Nakanoboribetsucho, Noboribetsu, Hokkaido 059-0463, Japan (map)
Wrapping Up: Best Museums in Hokkaido
Whether you're an art admirer or a history lover, the museums in Hokkaido will satisfy your soul with their beauty, intricacy, collection and exhibitions.
From the Hokkaido University Museum to the Abashiri Prison Museum, you'll be spoiled with choices!
So, what are you waiting for? It's time to start packing your bags today.
Commonly Asked Questions
What are the top places to travel in Hokkaido with family?
The most popular places to travel in Hokkaido with family are Mount Hakodate, Odori Park, Asahiyama Zoo, Mt. Moiwa, Farm Tomita, Goryokaku Tower, Jigokudani and more.
What are the best art museums in Hokkaido?
Popular art museums in Hokkaido are the Miyagi Museum of Art (Miyagi prefecture), Yamagata Museum of Art (Yamagata prefecture), Towada Art Center and others.
What is the best time to travel to Hokkaido?
Hokkaido beckons visitors throughout the year, and each season offers a unique charm, so there's really no wrong time to travel here.
Whether you're captivated by the allure of cherry blossoms in late April to mid-May, seeking a winter wonderland experience with thrilling ski adventures from December to February, marvelling at the vibrant autumn foliage in September to October, or indulging in summer escapades from June to August, this diverse destination ensures a delightful experience no matter the time of your visit.
What are the top food joints in Hokkaido?
Some of the best places to eat food in Hokkaido are Jingisukan (Lamb BBQ), Soup Curry, Seafood, Hokkaido Dairy and Ramen, Yubari King Melon and more.
Can I find vegetarian food in Hokkaido?
Yes, there are various vegetarian, gluten-free and vegan restaurants in Hokkaido. These include Lohas, Holistic Bio Cafe Veggy Way, Itadakizen, L'Esperance, Michiru Kitchen, Soup Curry Beyond Age and others.