A visit to Upopoy in Hokkaido immerses you in one of Japan’s Indigenous cultures.

It’s no secret that Aussies love Japan. But few who have been there know much about the Ainu, an Indigenous people from the Japanese archipelago, particularly Hokkaido.

At least, until they visit Upopoy. The national facility opened in Shiraoi Town in 2020 as a national centre for the revival, creation and development of Ainu culture. Their language is unrelated to Japanese, their worldview is closely connected to the natural world and their crafts – such as wood carving and embroidery – incorporate unique patterns.

Upopoy’s main facilities include the National Ainu Museum and Park, along with a Memorial Site. It’s a truly immersive cultural destination with plenty to see, hear, taste and do – from performance, music and storytelling to craft, food and hands-on programs. Most of these activities and workshops take place in the park section, right beside a stunning lake surrounded by lush greenery.

In fact, a wide range of cultural experience programs are held each day, allowing you to learn about the Ainu’s culture, worldview and relationship with nature (to make the most of your visit, check out the timetable and suggested routes online beforehand).

To help you plan a visit, we’ve shortlisted our five favourite – and perhaps unexpected – things you can experience at Upopoy.

1. Watch traditional Ainu dance and performances

In the Ainu language, Upopoy means “singing together in a large group". Singing and dancing are closely tied to Ainu life and spirituality, with dances performed during ceremonies offering thanks and prayers to the kamuy (spiritual beings), as well as at family gatherings and festivals. Their traditional dance is even UNESCO-recognised as an Intangible Cultural Heritage. Increasing numbers of people have been trying to revive traditional dances based on old records, and to create new types of Ainu music.

To see this cultural performing art for yourself, check the timetable for daily performances of songs and dances, passed down through various regions, at the Cultural Exchange Hall.

2. Visit a Kotan (Traditional Ainu Village)

Ainu culture comes to life at the kotan. Explore reconstructed cise (traditional Ainu houses) and listen to Ainu storytellers around a traditional irori (fire pit/ hearth) as they share folklore and lyrical songs passed down through the generations. They’ll also share fascinating insights into the Ainu way of life.

Expect to see traditional songs and dance performances. Depending on the program, you may even have the chance to join in. Don’t miss the lively paper theatre shows, depicting the deep relationship between the kamuy (spirit-deities) and the Ainu people through engaging stories, as well as scenes from traditional Ainu life.

3. Experience hands-on crafts and workshops

Upopoy hosts a wide variety of workshops and craft activities throughout the day. Try the Mukkuri experience, where you learn how to hold and play the traditional Ainu jaw harp or have a go at aksinot (archery) with a simplified bow and arrow, while learning about Ainu culture. Or, join a hunting-inspired workshop using a real bow and arrow.

If woodcarving is more your style, create your own original keepsakes by decorating items like coasters or smartphone stands with traditional Ainu patterns. Allow about an hour for these workshops, to either make a coaster or a smartphone stand.

4. Explore the National Ainu Museum

Wander The National Ainu Museum for an introduction to Ainu history, culture and everyday life. Its permanent exhibition explores Ainu culture from the perspective of the Ainu people themselves, through six themes: language, the world, everyday life, history, work and cultural exchange.

At the hands-on Tempatempa exhibition, visitors of all ages can learn through interactive displays and models designed to encourage curiosity and discovery. The museum also features a theatre, library and special exhibition gallery, offering even more ways to deepen your understanding of Ainu culture.

Outside, find Lake Poroto (Poroto means “big lake" in Ainu). Here, experience the landscapes that shaped and nurtured Ainu culture.

5. Try Ainu cuisine

For a taste of Ainu cuisine, head to Umizora no Haru in the Entrance Centre. Here, you can try ohaw, a traditional soup made by a huci (elder woman), along with wild game dishes and light snacks.

Alternatively, pop into Café RIMSE in the Welcome Plaza. The menu consists of Ainu dishes made using local ingredients, along with a range of snacks, drinks and souvenirs.

The details

Offering easy access from New Chitose Airport and Sapporo, Upopoy is a destination that can easily be combined with other popular Hokkaido spots – like Noboribetsu Onsen and Niseko.

Start planning your meaningful visit to UPOPOY at ainu-upopoy.go.jp/en/.