Museums, Asahikawa

The Historic Village of Hokkaido (開拓の村, Kaitaku no Mura) is an open air museum in the suburbs of Sapporo. It exhibits about 60 typical buildings from all over Hokkaido, dating from the Meiji and Taisho Periods (1868 to 1926), the era when Hokkaido's development was carried out on a large scale. There are four different sections: a town, fishing village, farm village and a mountain village. https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e5303.html

Hokkaido is the birthplace of beer in Japan. Sapporo Beer, one of the oldest and most popular beer brands in the country, has been brewed in Sapporo since 1877. The Sapporo Beer Museum (サッポロビール博物館, Sapporo Beer Hakubutsukan) was opened in 1987 in a former brewery from the Meiji Period. The museum introduces the history of beer in Japan and the process of beer making. After the exhibitions, beer tastings are available at a small fee. Alternatively, paid tours are held in Japanese that include a tasting session at the end. https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e5300.html

The Ainu Museum is an outdoor gem that invites visitors to discover the rich culture of the Ainu, the indigenous people of Hokkaido. Nestled along the serene shores of Lake Poroto, the museum's thatched-roof homes, known as "chise," form a charming settlement that harmonizes beautifully with the surrounding nature. As you wander through this enchanting village, you can almost feel the whispers of history in the air. The museum offers more than just a visual feast; it provides an immersive experience into the daily lives and traditions of the Ainu people. From traditional crafts to captivating performances, there's so much to explore and learn. The setting is perfect for those who appreciate both history and nature, offering a tranquil yet enlightening escape. Whether you're a history buff or simply curious about different cultures, the Ainu Museum promises a memorable journey into the past.

The Clock Tower (時計台, Tokeidai) is a symbol of Sapporo. The building was constructed during the early period of Sapporo's development in 1878 as a drill hall of the Sapporo Agricultural College. In 1881 a clock purchased from Boston was installed. Today, the Clock Tower serves as a museum with displays about the building's history and Sapporo on the first floor. On the second floor are displays about the clock and a spacious ceremony hall that calls to mind the simple buildings of the colonial American Midwest. https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e5302.html

The Sado Gold Mine was the largest gold and silver mine in Japan. It has a 400-year heritage spanning economic ups and downs from its opening in 1601 to its closure in 1989. The industrial remains of the gold mine including tunnels and mining infrastructure are designated both as a national treasure and as part of Japan’s Heritage of Industrial Modernisation. The site is a nominated candidate to the UNESCO World Heritage List. The remains of the gold mine are a popular location for history enthusiasts. The abandoned buildings remind visitors of Hayao Miyazaki's movie “Castle in the Sky”. Visitors can spend all day here to exploring the site’s photogenic scenery. The gold mine offers two routes that visitors can explore (no reservation is required, each route takes 30 to 40 minutes). These routes are open every day. Large groups or anyone particularly interested in the history of the mine can make a reservation for one of two guided tours. The guided tours are available from April to November and take about 100 minutes. One is available for groups of over 10 people, the other is only for visitors over 13 years. https://enjoyniigata.com/en/spot/9012#

The Tokyo State Guest House (迎賓館, Geihinkan) is one of two state guest houses of the Japanese government alongside another one in Kyoto. Contained within the Akasaka Imperial Estate in central Tokyo, the Tokyo State Guest House serves to accommodate world leaders, diplomats and other guests of honor during their visits to Japan. When not in use, sections of the grand estate are open to the public, with visitors able to explore some of the opulent rooms, picturesque gardens and the Japanese-style annex. https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e3048.html

Explore the museum that exhibits an extensive number of aircraft, aircraft-related materials, and materials related to the development of space technology. Gifu-Kakamigahara Air and Space Museum is the museum representing Japan in both air and space. It re-opened on March 24th, 2018, with an exhibition area of 9,400 square meters—1.7 times larger than its original size. The museum has been rebuilt into an educational environment that tells stories of our ancestors’ aspirations to fly in air and space; it also holds the power to inspire children to take on unthinkable challenges. The ”Aviation Area” of the museum is filled with the history and stories concerning humans’ development of aviation technology, while the "Space Area" contains stories about humanity’s challenges into space and information on the latest space technology. In addition to the above exhibition areas, the museum café and gift shop were also renovated allowing for an even greater experience than ever before. Educational programs and tours are planned to be held on a regular basis. https://visitgifu.com/see-do/gifu-kakamigahara-air-and-space-museum/

During the Edo Period (1600-1868), Nagoya served as the seat of the Owari, one of the three major branches of the ruling Tokugawa family. The family amassed great wealth that was only surpassed by four of the 200 feudal domains of the Edo Period. The Tokugawa Art Museum (徳川美術館, Tokugawa Bijutsukan) was built on the grounds of the Owari's former feudal residence and preserves and exhibits several of their treasures including samurai armour and swords, tea utensils, noh masks and costumes, poems, scrolls and maps. https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e3303.html

In March 2011, a remarkable new addition opened its doors: "Brother Earth," a dazzling planetarium housed within a 35-meter-diameter dome. This isn't just any planetarium; it's the largest in the world. If you're in the area, you absolutely must check out the four large-scale exhibitions. Picture this: an aurora film in a chilling -30°C setting and a towering 9-meter tall manmade tornado. These attractions offer an exhilarating glimpse into the raw power of nature, making your visit both educational and thrilling. But the wonders don’t stop there. The building itself is an exhibit of modern sustainability and engineering. It harnesses solar power, boasts lush green walls, and features visible earthquake-resistant structures and elevator mechanisms. It's a testament to how we can blend architecture with eco-friendly technology. For those interested in the intersection of science and innovation, this site is a must-visit. Located in the heart of Nagoya, the science museum is perfectly situated for a day of exploration. You'll leave with a newfound appreciation for both the natural world and human ingenuity.

Opened in 2011, the SCMAGLEV and Railway Park is the railway museum of Central Japan Railways (JR Central). The museum seeks to educate visitors on the advances in high speed rail in Japan and displays a number of actual trains including historic steam locomotives, world record setting experimental shinkansen (bullet train) and the latest magnetic levitating trains (maglev). A collection of 39 retired train cars are displayed in the museum. Many of these can be entered or viewed from underneath, and are accompanied by a host of exhibits explaining the different parts of the trains and all aspects of their operation and maintenance. Another section of the museum is dedicated to maglev trains and JR Central's plans to construct a maglev high speed link between Tokyo and Osaka. The second floor of the museum also has lots of learning experiences, which are specifically geared toward young children. https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e3314.html

If you find yourself in Hamamatsu, Shizuoka Prefecture, don't miss the chance to explore the Hamamatsu Museum of Musical Instruments. Nestled conveniently near Hamamatsu Station within the Seminar & Exchange Center of the Act City complex, this museum (Tel: 053 451 1128; 400 yen) is a treasure trove that celebrates the city's deep-rooted ties to the world of musical instrument production. Did you know that Hamamatsu was the birthplace of Japan's first European-style piano over a century ago? Today, it's a global hub for renowned brands like Yamaha and Kawai, crafting everything from exquisite pianos to cutting-edge synthesizers and electronic keyboards. The museum, with a helping hand from Yamaha, has curated an impressive collection of over 1300 instruments, including some rare and priceless gems. As you wander through the exhibits, you'll be struck by the sheer diversity of the instruments on display, each with its unique story and cultural significance. Whether you're a music aficionado or simply curious, this museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. Plus, the Act City complex itself offers delightful dining and shopping options, making it a perfect day out.

Asahi is one of Japan's top four beer producers and has its roots in Osaka. Its most well-known and internationally recognized product is Asahi Super Dry, a very light, crisp lager, which was launched in 1987. The Suita Factory (アサヒビール吹田工場, Asahi Beer Suita Kōjō) in Osaka is the company's first brewery, built in 1891. Free brewery tours are offered at the Suita Factory which lasts about 90 minutes and includes a tasting session. Most tours are conducted in Japanese, while multilingual audio guides are available for download to one's mobile device. English tours are held only on a few selected days. A typical tour starts with a video presentation of the Asahi products and continues to galleries with displays about the history of the company and the production process of beer. It then moves on to observation decks from where the brewery's canning, bottling and packing areas can be viewed from behind windows. Along the way, there are also promotional posters from past decades and a section showcasing the factory's collection of international beers. https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e4032.html

The Osaka Museum of History opened in 2003 in a tall building next to NHK Osaka and just across the street from Osaka Castle. The building offers excellent views of the castle from its top floors. The museum exhibits are visually oriented with several large models. They chronicle the city's history, beginning in ancient times when Osaka served as Japan's first capital and site of the Naniwa Palace and ending with exhibits on the city's bustling shopping arcades of the early Showa Period. The museum's collection is set up on the upper floors of the building while the lower floors are occupied by a restaurant, shop and spacious lobby. Museum visitors first take the elevator to the top floor and then follow the exhibition route down. https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e4014.html

The National Museum of Art, Osaka (国立国際美術館, Kokuritsu Kokusai Bijutsukan) occupies two underground floors on Nakanoshima Island in central Osaka. The museum focuses on Japanese and foreign contemporary art, with exhibitions from the museum collection and special exhibitions. The museum's current building was opened in 2007 and was designed to represent the growth and shape of a bamboo plant. The facility was formerly housed in the Expo Museum of Fine Arts, built for the Osaka Expo in 1970. https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e4016.html

Located in Osafune, a town that once flourished as a major produce of Japanese swords, the Bizen Osafune Japanese Sword Museum is one of a limited number of sword museums and features a variety of Japanese swords on display. Visitors can learn about the history and manufacturing process for Japanese swords as well as experience the beauty and power of the swords up close. The museum features several special exhibitions throughout the year that combine animations and video games, making this a popular destination for sword fans from across the country. In the adjacent workshop, visitors can see the skill of Japanese sword artisans, including the process where tamahagane, steel made from iron sand, is heated to 1300°C and then hammered to make a plate. https://www.okayama-japan.jp/en/spot/1073

The symbol of the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter, this private museum features Western works of art in an eye-catching building styled after a Greek temple. Based on Ohara Magosaburo’s collection of Western art, Ohara Museum of Art features a large collection of world-famous paintings and work such as one of El Greco’s “Annunciation” and Monet’s “Water Lilies.” The museum also features a pond with water lilies propagated from Monet’s residence. https://www.okayama-japan.jp/en/spot/901

The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum is a beacon for those passionate about nuclear disarmament and the quest for enduring global peace. This museum offers a profound journey through its two main areas: the East Building and the Main Building. As you wander through its halls, you'll encounter a vivid portrayal of Hiroshima's history, both before and after the bombing. The exhibits are thoughtfully curated with photographs, films, and displays that bring the past to life. Some artifacts poignantly illustrate the sheer devastation caused by the atomic bomb, leaving a lasting impression on visitors. Springtime in the Peace Park is nothing short of magical. The cherry blossoms create a breathtaking canopy of pink, offering a serene contrast to the museum's somber stories. Just a short walk from the museum, you'll find the Atomic Bomb Dome, a poignant symbol of resilience and hope. It's a place where history whispers its lessons, urging us to remember and strive for a peaceful future. Whether you're a history buff or simply curious, the museum promises an enriching experience that stays with you long after your visit.

The Mazda Motor Corporation, founded in Hiroshima in 1920, still retains its corporate headquarters in the city of its origins. In addition to the headquarters, Mazda owns a large plot of coastal land which accommodates research and development laboratories, factories, and shipping facilities. The company museum and part of a factory are made available for public viewing. Like Toyota to Nagoya, Mazda plays a large role in Hiroshima's economy. Although Mazda is not as large as Toyota, it still produces over a million cars a year and is an innovative player in the Japanese auto industry. For instance, in 1991 Mazda became the first and only Japanese company to win the Le Mans Grand Prix. Continuing efforts to create more efficient vehicles include improving its version of rotary engines. https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e3405.html

Nestled in the heart of Seoul, the Seoul Museum of History stands as a unique beacon of the city's rich past and vibrant culture. Established in 2002 on the historic grounds of the former Gyeonghuigung Palace, this museum offers an immersive journey through 600 years of Seoul's history. The three-story building is thoughtfully divided into thematic sections: a special exhibition area, a permanent exhibition space, and a hall showcasing collections generously donated by the public. What sets this museum apart is its commitment to accessibility and interaction. Visitors can engage with the exhibits in a hands-on manner, exploring replicas of original artifacts that bring history to life. The museum also features the U-Exhibit Guidance System, a handy automatic translator available in multiple languages, ensuring that every visitor enjoys a convenient and enriching experience. One of the highlights of visiting this museum is the special exhibitions that often focus on different aspects of Seoul's dynamic history. Whether you're a history buff or just curious about the city's evolution, there's always something to capture your interest. Plus, the museum's location offers easy access to other historical sites in the area, making it a perfect starting point for a day of exploration.

Nestled in the heart of Kitakyushu, the Matsumoto Seicho Memorial Museum stands as a tribute to the legendary writer, celebrating his remarkable accomplishments. This spot is often hailed as the cultural hub of Kitakyushu, drawing literature enthusiasts from around the globe. The museum offers a captivating glimpse into Matsumoto Seicho's life and work, with exhibits that showcase his influence on both Japanese and international literature. Strolling through the museum, you'll find yourself immersed in the stories and insights of a writer who captured the essence of post-war Japan. The surrounding area is equally enchanting, with charming cafes and quaint shops that invite you to linger and soak in the creative atmosphere. Visitors often find themselves inspired by the harmony of tradition and modernity, making it a must-see destination for anyone exploring Japan's cultural landscape.

Nestled on Japan’s enchanting Kyushu island, the Oita Prefectural Art Museum is a treasure trove for art enthusiasts and architecture buffs alike. While its collection of modern and contemporary Japanese art is undeniably impressive, what truly steals the show is the museum's striking architectural design. Crafted by the renowned architect Shigeru Ban, the building itself is a masterpiece of modern design. The museum's open, airy structure invites visitors to explore its exhibits while simultaneously offering a feast for the eyes with its innovative use of space and materials. The blend of natural light and clean lines makes wandering through the museum a delightful experience. Besides the captivating art and architecture, the museum often hosts workshops and events that provide a deeper appreciation for Japan's rich artistic heritage. When visiting Oita, make sure to carve out some time to explore this architectural gem; it's an experience that art lovers and curious travelers alike won't want to miss.

The Reimeikan Museum (黎明館) is dedicated to local history and culture. On three spacious floors, it presents a wide variety of exhibits that cover the span of Kagoshima's history from ancient to modern times. There are a few interesting models, such as a large diorama of downtown Kagoshima at the beginning of the Showa Period (1926-1989) and a small scale model of a village from the middle ages. The museum was built on the former site of the local castle, known as Kagoshima or Tsurumaru Castle, and is surrounded by parts of the former moat and stone walls. The museum and castle ruins are located at the base of Mount Shiroyama, which literally means "castle mountain" in Japanese. https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e4606.html

The Forbidden City, also known as the Palace Museum, lies in the city center of Beijing, and was once the Chinese imperial palace of the Ming and Qing Dynasties (1368 - 1911). It was listed as a World Heritage Site in 1987 and is the largest, best-preserved ancient timber-built palace complex in the world.Rectangular in shape, the Forbidden City is enormous, covering an area of 72 hectares, and boasting more than 9,000 bays of rooms. It is divided into two parts – the Outer Court for national affairs in the south and the Inner Court as living quarters in the north. It is not only an immense architectural masterpiece, but also a treasury housing a unique collection of 1.8 million pieces of art, including ancient calligraphy and painting, imperial artifacts, ancient books and archives. A must-see in Beijing and the world’s most visited museum, it is worth spending half to one day to visit the Forbidden City and appreciate the precious cultural heritage of China. https://www.travelchinaguide.com/cityguides/beijing/forbidden.htm

The Summer Palace is said to be the most well-preserved imperial gardens and the largest of its kind still in existence in China. There’s so much to see and enjoy that most people prefer to stay there at least half a day. Composed mainly of Longevity Hill and Kunming Lake, it owns over 3,000 man-made ancient structures, including pavilions, towers, bridges, corridors, etc. On the grounds of the Palace you will be able to walk through 'The Long Corridor' which is the longest corridor in the world. https://www.chinahighlights.com/beijing/attraction/summer-palace.htm

Nestled in the bustling district of Hongkou, the Shanghai Postal Museum is one of those delightful surprises that won't cost you a dime. This gem offers an intriguing peek into the evolution of China's postal service, making it a must-visit for history buffs and curious minds alike. Don't miss the chance to ascend to the stunning baroque rooftop, where you'll find a meticulously sculpted garden and a Romanesque clock tower. The view from up there is simply breathtaking: gaze westward along Suzhou Creek or turn your eyes east to admire the iconic Pudong skyline, with the Art Deco majesty of the Broadway Mansions standing proudly in the foreground. While you're in the area, consider exploring the nearby North Bund, a charming spot along the Huangpu River. It's a perfect place for a leisurely stroll or a casual bike ride, offering a unique perspective of Shanghai's blend of old and new architecture. The neighborhood is also home to some cozy cafes where you can unwind with a cup of tea or coffee after your museum visit. Whether you're a local or a traveler, the Shanghai Postal Museum and its surroundings promise a memorable day out.

If you're looking for a spot steeped in history and a touch of nostalgia, make your way to the Sanshan Guildhall. Once the favored gathering place for Fujian fruit merchants, this guildhall is one of the many that sprouted up across the city as a social hub for traders. Despite being relocated about 30 meters south from its original location, this gem, built in 1909, remains the sole well-preserved guildhall from the Qing dynasty. Today, it stands proudly as a museum, offering a fascinating glimpse into the past. You'll find it at 1551 Zhongshan Nan Lu, Bansongyuan Lu. As you wander through the museum, take a moment to appreciate the intricate architectural details and imagine the lively exchanges that once took place within these walls. It's a rare opportunity to connect with a piece of history that has withstood the test of time. Plus, it's a stone's throw away from some delightful local eateries where you can savor authentic Shanghainese cuisine, making it a perfect stop on your cultural journey through the city.

Established on October 15, 2007, the Wuxi Museum is a fascinating fusion of three former institutions: the original Wuxi Museum, the Wuxi Exhibition Hall of Revolution, and the Wuxi Science Museum. This cultural hub is a treasure trove for anyone looking to soak up the rich history and scientific wonders of Wuxi. The museum's architecture itself is a sight to behold, blending modern design with traditional elements that reflect the city's unique character. Inside, you'll find an impressive array of exhibits that cater to a variety of interests. Whether you're a history buff, a science enthusiast, or just curious about the local culture, there's something here for everyone. The museum also hosts interactive displays and educational programs, making it a fantastic destination for families and young adults alike. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the intricacies of Wuxi's revolutionary past and its strides in scientific advancement. And while you're there, take a moment to enjoy the serene surroundings of the museum, which is situated in a picturesque area that invites leisurely strolls and quiet reflection. It's a perfect spot to capture some Instagram-worthy photos or simply unwind amidst the hustle and bustle of city life.

China Dinosaur Park, nestled in the Modern Tourism & Recreation Park in the Xinbei district of Changzhou, is a real gem for those with a thirst for adventure and learning. It first opened its gates to the public on September 20, 2000, after its construction began back in 1997. Often referred to as the "Oriental Jurassic Park," this fascinating destination sprawls over 600 mu, which is about 100 acres of immersive fun and education. This park is not your average theme park; it’s a thrilling blend of a museum and a futuristic entertainment hub. Imagine walking through exhibits that feel like stepping back in time, all while surrounded by state-of-the-art acoustic, optic, and electric technology. The special video effects and multimedia network make it a place where science and fun collide in the most exciting ways. Whether you're a science enthusiast or just looking for a unique way to spend your day, China Dinosaur Park has something for everyone. It offers a mix of exhibitions, science popularization, and participatory performances that are sure to capture your imagination. And let's not forget the entertainment and leisure activities that make it perfect for a day out with friends or family. While you're there, don't miss the chance to see the animatronic dinosaurs, which bring these ancient creatures to life in a way that's both thrilling and educational. The park also hosts various seasonal events and festivals, so there's always something new to experience, making each visit unique and memorable.

Uncover the rich history of ancient civilizations and the early days of the Republic through fascinating exhibitions, intriguing displays, and captivating performances. As one of China's pioneering museums, it's not just steeped in history; it's also one of the biggest. The Nanjing Museum offers a treasure trove of cultural artifacts and stories waiting to be explored. Imagine walking through halls filled with relics that whisper tales of the past, from ancient ceramics to intricate calligraphy. It's a place where history feels alive, and each visit adds a new chapter to your understanding of China's vast heritage. Don't forget to check out the interactive sections, especially if you love a hands-on experience. They're perfect for making history feel tangible and real.

Visitors can go inside the statue, and from the inside of the horse's head, they have a panoramic view of the surroundings and reconstituted Mongolian village.

The site also has a museum that shows an exhibition about the Bronze Age and the archaeological culture of the Xiongnus in Mongolia. The visitor will discover usual utensils, belt buckles, knives, sacred animals, etc. The second exhibition covers the period of the 13th and 14th centuries, when the Mongolian Empire was at its height, with tools, goldsmith subjects, crosses, and rosaries. https://www.mongolia-trips.com/travel-guide/destination/gengis-khan-complex

The Choijin Lama Temple, built in 1904-1908 is a classic example of the traditional Buddhist architecture. This was the home of Luvsan Haidav Choijin Lama, brother of Bogd Khaan and a prominent lama. The museum is famous for its collection of Buddhist artworks, original silk icons, and tsam dancing masks. VIII Bogd Jazzundamba Khutagt Choijin Lama, a Chinggikh lama monastery built by 1904-1908 in the design and management of the Imperial Palace architect, and over 300 best craftsmen in Mongolia. In total, 88779 lan or 1821.2 kg of net money was spent on the construction of this church. Luvsansmddava was born in Tibet in 1872 and came to Mongolia in 1876. In 1905, he named the Church of the Emperor of Manchu to give a name to his temple. He called the "Temple of forgiveness." One of the features of the Church is the depiction of the enemy head, lungs, and heart of the enemy. This is the idea of ​​the mascot of the religious enemies of the religion. Since 1938, the Choijin monastery has closed its activities in 1938 and has been open to the public since 1942, as a religious museum, special guests and foreign delegates. Today, the Choijin Lama Temple is comprised of the Jambai Gate, the Mahrahar Temple, the Gate of Khuderati, the main temple, the Zanhang Temple, the Zuu Temple, the Yadam Temple, the mosque, and the temple. https://www.discovermongolia.mn/about-mongolia/destinations/ulaanbaatar-capital-city/choijin-lam-monastery

This is one of the oldest museums which was founded in 1924 as the National Central Museum. In 1956 it was renamed the State Central Museum and in 1997 it became the Museum of Natural History. Today there are departments of Geography, Geology, Flora and Fauna, and Paleontology in the museum. Displays of stuffed and embalmed animals including the rare Gobi bear and wild camel, birds, and fish will give you a good idea about the rich fauna of Mongolia. Most impressive is the Paleontology section. There are petrified eggs and bones of many dinosaurs that lived in the Gobi desert 60-70 million years ago and two complete skeletons of the flesh-eating giant Tarbosaurus and the duck-billed Saurolophus. Petrified bones of 5 kinds of dinosaurs out of 7 that are known today have been discovered in Mongolia. The museum also has samples of various minerals that are found in the country. https://www.discovermongolia.mn/about-mongolia/destinations/ulaanbaatar-capital-city/natural-history-museum

The Taipei National Palace Museum is a world-class museum that hosts an eclectic collection of treasures kept by generations of Emperors ruling from the Forbidden City. In WWII, Nationalist troops seized the most important pieces in order to prevent invaders from ransacking China's national treasures. A twist of fate eventually brought these treasures to Taiwan. The Taipei National Palace Museum is designed in the style of a Northern Chinese palace. The museum is home to hundreds of thousands of historical relics that make up the world's most comprehensive and precious collection of ancient Chinese artifacts. The entire collection covers 5,000 years of China's historical and artistic achievements. The museum provides Chinese, English, French, German, Japanese, Spanish and Korean language guides and museum-related literature. The museum is a must- see on any visitor's itinerary. https://www.travel.taipei/en/attraction/details/441