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Matagi Museum

4
·35 reviews·北秋田市, Japan

Discover the rich culture and resilient spirit of the Ani Matagi, traditional mountain hunters, through fascinating exhibits and rare photographs.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing

CrowdLow
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Matagi Museum - Image 1

Matagi Museum

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover the rich culture and resilient spirit of the Ani Matagi, traditional mountain hunters, through fascinating exhibits and rare photographs.

4
(35 reviews)

"A special facility to learn about the magnificence and strength of the Matagi way of life."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Admission at Onsen Desk

Pay your 200 yen admission fee at the Matagi no Yu hot spring reception. 🎟️

🎧 Audio Guide Available

Access detailed explanations via QR code for an enhanced understanding. :iphone:

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4 · 35 reviews

Type

Museum

👶 Good for kids♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking🚻 Accessible restroom

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Matagi Photographs

Matagi Photographs

Exhibition Hall

Rare and magnificent photos from the early Showa period capture the strength and vitality of the mountain hunters.

Hunting Equipment

Hunting Equipment

Exhibition Hall

See firsthand the traditional costumes, hunting gear, and tools used by the Ani Matagi.

Stuffed Animal Specimens

Stuffed Animal Specimens

Exhibition Hall

Encounter lifelike stuffed specimens of the animals primarily hunted by the Matagi.

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Planning Your Visit

Combine with Hot Springs

The Matagi Museum is conveniently located within the Matagi no Yu hot spring facility. Purchase your museum admission at the hot spring reception desk for a seamless experience. Consider visiting after a relaxing soak to fully appreciate the local culture.

Dress for the Cold

Even in warmer months, the museum can be quite chilly. Visitors recommend wearing an extra layer of clothing to ensure a comfortable visit and fully immerse yourself in the exhibits about the traditional Matagi lifestyle.

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Crowd
Low
When
After visiting Kumakuma En
Why
Efficient sightseeing route
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🎟️ Admission at Onsen Desk

Pay your 200 yen admission fee at the Matagi no Yu hot spring reception. 🎟️

🎧 Audio Guide Available

Access detailed explanations via QR code for an enhanced understanding. :iphone:

🧥 Bring an Extra Layer

The museum can be cold, even in summer. Dress warmly! :snowflake:

🚗 Ample Parking

Convenient parking is available on-site for visitors. 🚗

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Admission at Onsen Desk

Pay your 200 yen admission fee at the Matagi no Yu hot spring reception. 🎟️

🎧 Audio Guide Available

Access detailed explanations via QR code for an enhanced understanding. :iphone:

🧥 Bring an Extra Layer

The museum can be cold, even in summer. Dress warmly! :snowflake:

🚗 Ample Parking

Convenient parking is available on-site for visitors. 🚗

What Travellers Say

4
(35 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the Matagi Museum to be an affordable and insightful cultural experience, particularly when combined with the adjacent hot springs. The exhibits, including rare photographs and traditional hunting equipment, offer a unique glimpse into the life of the Ani Matagi. While the museum can be chilly, the accessible audio guide enhances understanding.

"I visited over the weekend.
I visited after visiting Kumakuma En nearby.
The facility is attached to Matagi no Yu, and registration is at the Matagi no Yu front desk.
Admission to the Matagi Museum is 200 yen.
You can also access the audio guide via QR code.
The Ani region of Kitaakita City is covered in mountain forests and is famous for the Ani Matagi.
Materials and exhibits related to the Matagi are displayed in an easy-to-understand manner.
The Matagi photographs from the early Showa period are rare and magnificent, capturing the strength and vitality of the mountain men.
The words of legendary Shikari Ani Matagi Suzuki Matsuji - "When you feel like you're losing yourself, why not go to another world and come and meet another you?" - struck me deeply.
I felt this was a special facility to learn about the magnificence and strength of the Matagi way of life.
Thank you."

脂肪遊戯

"This facility has easy-to-understand, detailed exhibits and explanations about Matagi, the hunters who hunt wild animals such as bears.

As other people have said in their reviews, the audio guidance is very light-hearted and provides excellent explanations.

It can get quite cold inside the facility, even in spring and early summer, so it's a good idea to wear an outer layer when entering.

It's a great facility to learn about Japanese culture and history, and is a great place for children to visit.

Parking is available."

Nd4 Neda4

"Visited on July 20, 2025.
The Matagi Museum exhibits costumes, hunting equipment, and stuffed specimens related to the Ani Matagi. You can experience the traditions and culture of the Matagi."

田口敦

What People Like

Affordable admission
Insightful exhibits
Helpful audio guide

What People Dislike

Can be cold inside

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Matagi Museum is located within the Matagi no Yu hot spring facility in Kitaakita City. If you are driving, parking is available on-site. Public transport options may be limited, so checking local bus schedules in advance is recommended. Reddit

Yes, many visitors combine their trip to the Matagi Museum with a visit to Kumakuma En, a nearby attraction. This makes for an efficient day of exploring the Ani region. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission to the Matagi Museum is a very affordable 200 yen. You can purchase your ticket at the front desk of the attached Matagi no Yu hot spring facility. Reddit

While specific hours can vary, the museum is generally accessible during the operating hours of the Matagi no Yu hot spring facility. It's best to confirm current hours with the facility directly before your visit. Reddit

Absolutely! The museum offers an audio guide that can be accessed via a QR code. This provides light-hearted and excellent explanations of the exhibits, enhancing your understanding of Matagi culture. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The Matagi Museum showcases the culture and lifestyle of the Ani Matagi, traditional hunters of wild animals. Exhibits include rare hunting equipment, clothing, detailed explanations of their traditions, and stuffed specimens of hunted animals. Reddit

Yes, the Matagi Museum is considered a great place for children to visit and learn about Japanese culture and history. The exhibits are presented in an easy-to-understand manner. Reddit

Visitors note that the museum can get quite cold inside, even during spring and early summer. It's highly recommended to wear an outer layer of clothing to stay comfortable during your visit. Reddit

The Matagi were skilled hunters who lived deep in the snowy mountains, adhering to strict discipline and mountain rules. The museum highlights their wisdom, strength, and the unique culture they developed to coexist with nature. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Matagi Museum itself does not have dining facilities. However, it is attached to the Matagi no Yu hot spring facility, which may offer some refreshments or dining options. It's advisable to check with the hot spring facility for their specific offerings. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography policies can vary. While some exhibits might be restricted, generally, visitors can take photos to capture the historical artifacts and displays. It's always a good idea to look for signage or ask staff if you're unsure about specific areas. Reddit

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