Explore Historical Hokkaido at the Historical Village of Hokkaido: A Must-Visit Sapporo Sightseeing Spot

The Historical Village of Hokkaido (Kaitaku no Mura) is an open-air museum located in Sapporo, offering visitors a glimpse into Hokkaido’s pioneering past. This expansive site features over 60 restored buildings from the Meiji and Taisho periods, meticulously reconstructed to reflect the architecture and lifestyle of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

A Journey Through Time

As you stroll through the village, you’ll encounter various types of buildings, including farmhouses, shops, government offices, and schools, each representing different aspects of Hokkaido’s development. The village is divided into four distinct zones: the Town, Fishing Village, Farm Village, and Mountain Village, each offering a unique perspective on the region’s history.

In the Town area, you’ll find structures such as a traditional post office, a barber shop, and a sake brewery, showcasing the daily life of early settlers. The Fishing Village highlights the importance of the fishing industry in Hokkaido, with buildings like a fisherman’s house and a processing facility. The Farm Village and Mountain Village areas demonstrate the agricultural practices and the rugged lifestyle of those living in the more remote parts of the island.

Interactive Experiences

Visitors to the Historical Village can engage in various hands-on experiences that bring history to life. Seasonal events and traditional craft demonstrations are regularly held, allowing you to try your hand at activities such as butter churning, grain threshing, or even participating in a traditional tea ceremony. Horse-drawn carriages and sleds provide a charming way to explore the village’s grounds, offering a deeper immersion into the past.

A Year-Round Attraction

The Historical Village of Hokkaido is a year-round attraction, with each season offering a different experience. In the spring and summer, the village is lush and green, making it perfect for leisurely walks. Autumn brings vibrant foliage, adding a picturesque backdrop to the historical buildings. In winter, the village is transformed into a snow-covered wonderland, where you can experience the traditional Hokkaido lifestyle in the cold months, including activities like snowshoeing.

A Cultural Treasure in Sapporo

For those interested in history, culture, or simply looking for an enriching Sapporo sightseeing experience, the Historical Village of Hokkaido is a must-visit destination. It provides a unique opportunity to step back in time and explore the pioneering spirit that shaped Hokkaido into what it is today.

Getting There

The Historical Village is located about 30 minutes from central Sapporo by train and bus. It’s easily accessible, making it a convenient addition to any Sapporo sightseeing itinerary.

INFORMATION

Open:

• May-September: 9:00 to 17:00 (Entry until 16:30)
  • No closed days.
• October-April: 9:00 to 16:30 (Entry until 16:00)
  • Closed every Monday (unless it is a national holiday or substitute holiday).
  • Closed Tuesday when it is the day after a national holiday.
  • Closed December 29 to January 3.

Admissions:

• Adults:
  • Individual: ¥1,000
  • Groups (10 or more): ¥800

Notes:

• Annual passport: ¥1,800
• Free parking available (400 vehicles)
• Address:
  • Konopporo 50-1, Atsubetsu-cho, Atsubetsu-ku, Sapporo
• TEL: 011-898-2692
• Website: www.kaitaku.or.jp