This Japanese Museum Is Preserving Ainu Culture And Heritage

Upopoy, is Japan's first national museum dedicated to the history and culture of the Ainu people, the indigenous people of the northern region of the Japanese archipelago. Situated in Shiraoi, Hokkaido, the museum opened its doors to the public in July, 2020. It serves as a cultural centre where visitors can learn about Ainu traditions, language, and way of life through a variety of exhibits, workshops, and live performances.

Visitors can witness traditional Ainu crafts being made, such as wood carving, weaving, and beadwork, and visit the reconstructed Ainu village (kotan), where traditional Ainu houses (chise) are built around a central square. This outdoor area provides a tangible experience of Ainu daily life. The unique 'Tempatempa' exhibit meaning “Touch and feel them.” is an interactive exhibits that introduces children and adults to Ainu culture through 18 learning tools and kits.

Constructed beside Lake Poroto, the museum offers a mosaic of interesting activities from dugout canoe demonstrations and performing arts workshops to oral literature performances, and even a traditional archery experience.

'Upopoy' translates to "Singing together" and the museum does its name justice. People from all parts of the world come together at this unique museum to sing along with traditional Ainu melodies and learn to play instruments such as 'Tonkori' and 'Mukkuri'. The museum is a big step in preserving the culture of the Ainu community which has been neglected by the Japanese government for a long time, often falling prey to discrimination due to colonial assimilation.

Visitors can enjoy Ainu dances, recognised as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, in the Interactive Gallery, and have a taste of traditional Ainu dishes or try cooking them as well.

The Upopoy has indeed rekindled interest in Ainu culture, offering travellers an interesting way to explore Ainu traditions and heritage. It has also sparked discussions regarding the depth of recognition and rights accorded to the Ainu people. Critics argue that the acknowledgment provided is largely symbolic, focusing on the commercialisation and public presentation of Ainu culture without adequately addressing or advancing the fundamental rights and social issues that the Ainu face. Nervertheless, the introduction of Ainu culture into the mainstream and exposure of the international community to its diversity has opened up the way to granting the Ainu community the respect they deserve.

Getting there

Upopoy Museum is accessible by rail and car. The closest station is JR Shiraoi Station. The museum is a ten-minute walk from the North Exit of the station. The New Chitose Airport in Tokyo is 1 hour 40 minutes away by car.

Timings and Tickets

The museum has different timings for each month usually opening at 9 a.m. and closing at either 5 or 6 p.m. The ticket price for an adult is 1,200 yen.