National Ainu Museum and Park (Upopoy)

About this Attraction

Nestled on the shores of Lake Poroto in Shiraoi, Hokkaido, Upopoy—officially the National Ainu Museum and Park—is Japan’s premier cultural destination dedicated to the Ainu, the indigenous people of northern Japan. The name “Upopoy” means “singing together in a large group,” symbolizing its mission as a “Symbolic Space for Ethnic Harmony”, fostering respect and understanding across cultures .

The centerpiece is the National Ainu Museum, Japan’s first national museum solely committed to Ainu history and culture. Launched in July 2020, its permanent exhibitions explore six key themes—language, cosmos, daily life, work, history, and exchange—through immersive multimedia, hands-on installations, dioramas, and theater. The museum also hosts rotating exhibits and features a 96-seat theater screening Ainu cultural films .

Stepping outside, the National Ainu Park, an open-air cultural hub, immerses visitors in authentic cultural experiences. Reconstructed village houses (cise) form a traditional kotan, allowing entry and engagement within Ainu homes Multiple interactive zones include the Cultural Exchange Hall—with UNESCO-recognized dance and mukkuri mouth-harp performances—craft studios for wood carving and embroidery, cooking workshops, and archery . Visitors can stroll the Path to the Ainu Spirit, then unwind in Gateway Square with lakeside dining and shopping .

Upopoy isn’t just a museum—it’s a living cultural landscape. It promotes ongoing cultural revival, research, and personal skill development for future Ainu generations . The park offers multilingual resources—audio guides, signage, pamphlets in Ainu, Japanese, English, Chinese, Korean, Russian, and Thai—ensuring accessibility and resonance for international visitors .

According to visitor feedback, a well-paced visit typically requires 2–3 hours, particularly to catch live performances, or up to a full day to explore exhibits, workshops, and lakeside events fully

In short, Upopoy is more than a stop—it's a profound journey into Ainu heritage, blending education, performance, hands-on interaction, and respectful commemoration within a serene natural setting. A must-visit for anyone seeking to experience the Ainu’s enduring cultural legacy.