Hokkaido Museum Sapporo
Explore Hokkaido's rich history, from mammoths and ancient cultures to the Ainu people and modern development.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more immersive
Hokkaido Museum Sapporo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more immersive
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Hokkaido's rich history, from mammoths and ancient cultures to the Ainu people and modern development.
"An amazing museum that takes you on a travel across time, offering profound insights into Hokkaido's past."
🎟️ Combined Tickets
Save money by purchasing a combined ticket with the Historical Village of Hokkaido.
🚶♀️ Walk to Historical Village
The museum is a short 10-15 minute walk from the Historical Village of Hokkaido.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mammoth and Prehistoric Exhibits
Ground Floor
Journey through time from the age of mammoths to early Paleolithic cultures and Jomon pottery. A truly impressive start to your visit.
Ainu Culture and History
Second Floor
Gain profound insights into the indigenous Ainu people, their customs, and the impact of external influences on their way of life.
Hokkaido's Development
Throughout the Museum
Trace the evolution of Hokkaido from its natural origins to its modern development, including cultural exchanges and historical shifts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Combine with Historical Village
Allocate Ample Time
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Combined Tickets
Save money by purchasing a combined ticket with the Historical Village of Hokkaido.
🚶♀️ Walk to Historical Village
The museum is a short 10-15 minute walk from the Historical Village of Hokkaido.
🗣️ English Support
While not all tours are in English, audio guides and some translations are available.
🍽️ No Food Onsite
There are no substantial food options at the museum; consider bringing your own lunch.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Combined Tickets
Save money by purchasing a combined ticket with the Historical Village of Hokkaido.
🚶♀️ Walk to Historical Village
The museum is a short 10-15 minute walk from the Historical Village of Hokkaido.
🗣️ English Support
While not all tours are in English, audio guides and some translations are available.
🍽️ No Food Onsite
There are no substantial food options at the museum; consider bringing your own lunch.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Hokkaido Museum for its comprehensive and engaging exhibits that cover the region's history from prehistory to modern times, with particular appreciation for the mammoth displays and insights into Ainu culture. Many recommend combining it with the Historical Village for a full day of exploration. However, some wish for more time to see all sections, and note the lack of onsite food options.
"It's a museum well worth visiting. While it's not a large establishment, with only two floors, you could easily spend a couple of hours exploring everything. You'll gain a lot of knowledge about Hokkaido's history and culture. They also have seasonal exhibitions, but you'll need to pay an additional fee to see them. I would recommend setting aside a good half-day for your visit here."
Sawit Khosittham
"Bought this ticket together with the historical village at 1400 yen. This is about 10-15 mins walk away from the historical village. Accessible by bus no 22 from shin Sapporo station.
A rather compact museum focus on origin and development of Hokkaido as well as the jomon and Ainu people.
Time spent 2-3 hours."
ky yong
"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 amazing museum!!"
Ariel Cabrera Foix
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Hokkaido Museum is accessible by bus number 22 from Shin-Sapporo Station. It's also a short walk from the Historical Village of Hokkaido.
Information on parking availability is not widely publicized, but public transport is recommended. Consider checking local transit apps for the most up-to-date information.
No, it's not feasible to walk from Sapporo Station to the Hokkaido Museum. It's recommended to take public transportation, such as a bus from Shin-Sapporo Station.
From downtown Sapporo, take the subway to Shin-Sapporo Station and then catch bus number 22 directly to the Hokkaido Museum.
Yes, the Historical Village of Hokkaido is located nearby and is easily accessible by a short walk.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for the Hokkaido Museum can be purchased individually or as part of a combined ticket with the Historical Village of Hokkaido, which is a good value at around 1400 yen.
Advance booking is generally not required for the Hokkaido Museum, but it's always a good idea to check their official website for any special exhibitions or events that might require reservations.
The museum typically opens in the morning and closes in the late afternoon. It's best to check the official Hokkaido Museum website for the most current opening hours, as they can vary seasonally.
Combined tickets with the Historical Village of Hokkaido offer a discount. Check for any potential group rates or special offers on their website.
Information on specific discount passes is not widely available. It's recommended to inquire directly with the museum or check local tourism information centers for any applicable passes.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend between 1.5 to 3 hours at the Hokkaido Museum to fully appreciate the exhibits on Hokkaido's history and culture.
Yes, multilingual audio guides are available, which can enhance your understanding of the exhibits.
The museum features exhibits on Hokkaido's natural history, prehistoric eras (including mammoths), Jomon and Ainu cultures, and the region's development and cultural exchanges.
Yes, the museum's exhibits on mammoths and natural history can be engaging for children, though the historical and cultural aspects might be more appreciated by older visitors.
While specific interactive exhibits aren't heavily detailed, the museum's chronological layout and diverse displays offer an engaging way to learn about Hokkaido's past.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no substantial food options or restaurants located within the Hokkaido Museum itself. Visitors are advised to bring their own food.
The closest dining options would likely be near Shin-Sapporo Station or within the Historical Village of Hokkaido, though the latter may have limited hours.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally best to consume outside food in designated areas or picnic spots, if available, rather than inside the exhibition halls.
The Sapporo Beer Garden is famous for its Genghis Khan (lamb barbecue) and offers all-you-can-eat options, often paired with Sapporo beer. 
Yes, the Sapporo Beer Museum is located near the Sapporo Beer Garden, and many visitors combine a visit to both. The museum offers insights into beer history, while the garden provides a dining and tasting experience.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. It's advisable to look for signage within the museum or ask staff if photography is permitted, especially for exhibits with sensitive artifacts.
The exhibits themselves, particularly the mammoth skeletons and displays of historical artifacts, offer unique photographic opportunities.
Respect for cultural heritage is important. Always check for specific restrictions on photographing cultural artifacts or depictions of people.
While the museum itself is focused on indoor exhibits, the surrounding area, especially if combined with the Historical Village, offers a glimpse into Hokkaido's landscape.
A camera with good low-light performance and a versatile lens is ideal for museum photography. Avoid using flash, as it can damage artifacts and is often prohibited.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the Ainu culture and historical development sections might be more suited for older children or adults, the museum offers a broad overview that can spark curiosity. Consider bringing snacks or a packed lunch, as food options within the museum are limited.
📚 History Buffs
Don't miss the opportunity to combine your visit with the Historical Village of Hokkaido, which offers a more immersive, living-history experience. The museum's focus on cultural exchange and the impact of colonization offers a thought-provoking perspective that history enthusiasts will appreciate.
🍺 Beer Enthusiasts
+2Be sure to try the exclusive beers available only at the museum or garden. Remember that the Beer Garden, especially its all-you-can-eat options, is reservation-only, so plan ahead to avoid disappointment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Hokkaido's Past: From Prehistory to Modernity
The narrative then shifts to the Ainu people, Hokkaido's indigenous inhabitants, exploring their unique customs, spirituality, and way of life. This section offers a poignant look at their history, including the impact of external influences and the eventual suppression of their traditions. The museum doesn't shy away from the complexities of this history, presenting a balanced perspective that resonates with visitors.
Finally, the exhibits trace the increasing influence from Honshu, the establishment of the Matsumae clan, and the subsequent arrival of the Tokugawa shogunate. This period marks a significant shift towards 'civilization' and the integration of Hokkaido into the broader Japanese context. The museum concludes with a look at modern Hokkaido and its natural environment, though some visitors wish for more time to explore these later sections.
The Sapporo Beer Experience: Museum and Garden
+1A major draw is the opportunity to taste exclusive Sapporo beers not available elsewhere, including those brewed specifically for the museum.
Many visitors recommend the beer flight to sample a variety. Adjacent to the museum is the Sapporo Beer Garden, a grand establishment housed in a historic building. Here, you can indulge in the famous Genghis Khan (Yakiniku), an all-you-can-eat lamb barbecue experience, often paired with unlimited Sapporo beer. +1 Reservations are highly recommended, especially for the all-you-can-eat plans, as they are very popular. 
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