Hakodate City Museum of Northern Peoples, Ethnographic museum in Hakodate, Japan
The Hakodate City Museum of Northern Peoples is an ethnographic museum that focuses on the Ainu and Orok cultures. Extensive exhibitions display everyday objects, traditional clothing, and tools that provide insights into how these communities lived.
The museum occupies a 1926 Bank of Japan building that was repurposed as a cultural institution in 1989. This transformation preserved the original banking architecture while dedicating the space to displaying northern peoples' heritage.
The collection reveals how Ainu people organized their daily lives through tools, clothing, and household items you can examine closely. These objects tell stories about their traditions and the ways communities shared knowledge and skills across generations.
The museum is conveniently located in Hakodate and welcomes visitors most days of the week. You will find clear signage to help you navigate through the galleries and exhibitions.
The building was originally designed as a bank branch and still retains historical details like teller windows and architectural features. This contrast between the classical banking setting and modern museum displays creates an unusual viewing experience.
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