Historic Village of Hokkaido
Hokkaido Region
The Historical Village of Hokkaido is a unique open-air museum located within Nopporo Shinrin Kōen Prefectural Natural Park in Sapporo. Established in 1983, it preserves and exhibits 52 buildings relocated or reconstructed from the Meiji to Shōwa eras, representing Hokkaido's pioneering days. The museum is divided into four zones: town, fishing village, farming village, and mountain village, each reflecting different aspects of regional life. Visitors can explore authentic historical architecture including former government offices, residences, schools, and commercial buildings, many with significant cultural value. A highlight is the rare 762 mm narrow gauge horse-drawn tramway operating in summer, replaced by horse sleds in winter, offering a nostalgic transport experience. The site also hosts seasonal events and traditional craft demonstrations, supported by volunteers, preserving the rich cultural heritage of Hokkaido's development. The museum serves both as an educational resource and a vivid glimpse into Japan's northern frontier history.
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Tip: Visit during warmer months to enjoy the horse-drawn tramway, and in winter on weekends for horse sled rides. Purchasing an annual passport offers discounts on dining. Advance tickets are recommended for special events. The museum is accessible by JR Hokkaido Bus from Shinsapporo Bus Terminal. Volunteers provide guided tours and craft demonstrations, enhancing the visitor experience.
Interesting facts
- •The museum features a rare 762 mm narrow gauge horse-drawn tramway, one of the few of its kind in Japan.
- •Several buildings, such as the former Kaitakushi Sapporo Main Office (1873), are important cultural properties and have been relocated to the site.
- •In winter, horse sleds replace the tramway due to heavy snowfall, preserving traditional transportation methods.
- •The village hosts seasonal events including traditional games, crafts, and a Christmas festival with unique local customs.
- •The former Yamamoto Barber Shop operated within the village until 1986 and was designated Japan's first 'Barber Heritage' site in 2013.
History
Conceived in 1967 as part of Hokkaido's centennial celebrations, the Historical Village of Hokkaido was developed to preserve pioneer-era buildings.
The basic plan was finalized in 1972, construction began in 1977, and the museum opened in 1983.
Over the decades, it has expanded to include 52 relocated or reconstructed buildings from the Meiji through Shōwa periods.
In 2007, it was designated a museum-equivalent facility.
Despite financial and maintenance challenges, it remains a key cultural institution preserving Hokkaido's pioneering heritage.
Place Guide
Town Zone
Comprises 31 buildings including former government offices, residences of notable pioneers, schools, and commercial establishments, showcasing urban life in early Hokkaido.
Fishing Village Zone
Contains 4 buildings representing coastal communities, illustrating the fishing culture and lifestyles of Hokkaido’s maritime settlers.
Farming Village Zone
Features 14 buildings portraying rural agricultural life, including farmhouses, granaries, and facilities related to sericulture and livestock.
Mountain Village Zone
Comprises 3 buildings that depict life in Hokkaido’s forested and mountainous regions, including charcoal kilns and timber industry facilities.
Horse-Drawn Tramway1982
A 762 mm narrow gauge tramway operating in summer with horse-drawn carriages, replaced by horse sleds in winter, offering visitors a historic transport experience within the village.
Contact
Phone: 011-898-2692