Abashiri Prison Museum

The Abashiri Prison Museum offers a rare glimpse into Hokkaido’s frontier history. Once home to Japan’s most notorious criminals, this open-air museum now preserves the original wooden prison buildings, cells, and workshops.

Visitors can walk through life-sized exhibits, learn about the prisoners who helped build Hokkaido’s infrastructure, and experience the daily routines of Japan’s Meiji-era inmates. It’s a powerful blend of history, architecture, and human resilience — a must-see for those exploring Eastern Hokkaido.

Beyond its historical significance, the Abashiri Prison Museum offers an immersive journey through time. Surrounded by serene forests, the open-air grounds invite visitors to stroll through beautifully preserved wooden architecture, each building telling a story of survival and determination.

Interactive exhibits, guided tours, and seasonal displays bring history to life — from the harsh winters faced by inmates to the pioneering spirit that shaped Hokkaido. It’s not just a museum, but a window into the resilience of humanity and the birth of modern Japan in the untamed north.

• Address: 1-1 Yobito, Abashiri-shi, Hokkaido 099-2421, Japan
• Telephone: +81 (0)152-45-2411
• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Last admission at 4:00 PM)
  Closed: December 31 & January 1
• Admission Fee: Adults ¥1,500 • High School Students ¥1,000 • Elementary & Junior High Students ¥750
  Group discount (20% off for 20+ people) & special rates available. Discounts cannot be combined.