Upopoy is a cultural facility in Shiraoi, Hokkaido, dedicated to sharing the history, culture, and traditions of the Ainu, the Indigenous people of northern Japan. Officially known as the National Ainu Museum and Park, or the Symbolic Space for Ethnic Harmony, it was established as a major center for the revitalization and transmission of Ainu culture.
The name Upopoy comes from an Ainu word meaning “singing together in a large group.” True to its name, visitors can experience Ainu culture through traditional dance, music, storytelling, crafts, and other programs that engage the senses. Performances featuring traditional instruments such as the mukkuri, a traditional mouth harp, and the tonkori, a five-stringed musical instrument, offer an introduction to the distinctive sounds of Ainu culture.
Opened in 2020, Upopoy was created to promote a deeper understanding of Ainu history and culture while supporting their preservation, revitalization, and continued development. The facility serves as an important place for cultural transmission and for encouraging understanding and coexistence between the Ainu people and other communities.
Set beside Lake Poroto in Shiraoi, Upopoy combines museum exhibitions with opportunities for hands-on cultural experiences. Rather than simply viewing artifacts, visitors can encounter aspects of Ainu traditions through performances, demonstrations, workshops, and educational programs.
The National Ainu Museum introduces the history, culture, and way of life of the Ainu through a wide range of exhibits. Traditional clothing, handicrafts, tools, and everyday objects help visitors understand how Ainu communities lived and developed their distinctive culture in close relationship with their environment.
Exhibitions also explore the development and transmission of Ainu traditions, allowing visitors to discover the cultural knowledge, skills, beliefs, and artistic expressions that have been passed down through generations.
One of Upopoy’s highlights is its hands-on approach to cultural learning. Visitors can take part in programs introducing Ainu songs, dances, and traditional musical instruments, including the tonkori. These activities provide an approachable way to experience elements of Ainu culture rather than learning about them solely through displays.
Traditional dance performances are another memorable experience. The movements, music, and songs convey stories and cultural values that have been preserved as part of Ainu heritage. Workshops and seasonal events also provide opportunities to discover different aspects of traditional Ainu life.
Ainu culture developed through a close relationship with the natural environment of northern Japan. At Upopoy, visitors can learn about traditional ways of living with nature, including the use of plants and the knowledge associated with fishing and hunting.
The surrounding landscape also helps visitors appreciate this relationship. The site extends into a natural setting beside Lake Poroto, creating an environment where cultural learning can be connected with the forests, water, and other elements of the northern landscape.
Upopoy also has an important educational role. Programs developed in cooperation with schools and educational institutions introduce children to Ainu history and culture, while exhibitions, guided programs, and cultural activities are designed to make the subject accessible to visitors of all ages.
For international travelers, Upopoy provides an opportunity to gain a broader understanding of Japan by learning about one of the country’s Indigenous cultures and its distinctive history. The combination of museum displays and firsthand cultural experiences makes it particularly valuable for visitors who want to look beyond Japan’s better-known traditions.
Upopoy is located beside Lake Poroto in Shiraoi and can be reached by train, bus, or car. Its setting makes it easy to combine cultural exploration with time spent enjoying the surrounding natural scenery.
After exploring the museum and cultural programs, visitors can take a break at the on-site restaurants and cafés. Some facilities introduce Ainu-inspired cuisine and local food culture, while the shops offer Ainu crafts and other souvenirs that reflect the region’s cultural heritage.
Upopoy offers much more than a conventional museum visit. Through exhibitions, music, dance, crafts, and experiences connected with the natural environment, it provides a vivid introduction to the history and culture of the Ainu people.
For travelers exploring southern Hokkaido, a visit to Upopoy is an opportunity to encounter an important part of the region’s cultural identity and gain a deeper appreciation of the diverse histories that have shaped northern Japan.
Weekdays 9:00-18:00
Weekends and holidays: 9:00-20:00
Winter (November to March) 9:00-17:00
Monday *If Monday is a national holiday or a holiday, the following weekday is closed
New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day
Adults 1,200 yen
High school students 600 yen
Free for junior high school students and younger
10 min. walk from JR Shiraoi Station