The open-air history museum opened in 1983.
Used as a prison for felons since 1880, the historical buildings of the Abashiri Prison were sequentially moved to the current location or newly reconstructed.
Visitors can learn about prison life and the harsh labor of prisoners at that time, as well as the history of Hokkaido’s pioneering efforts to develop the prison.
There are a number of realistic, slightly frightening dolls on display, but they make it visually easy to understand the message.
There are a lot of materials on display, including a 3D theater, and it will all make you think “wow, this place spent a lot of money!”
It’s an accommodating place with multilingual support.
In addition, you can eat ‘prison food’ at ‘Kanguo Shokudo’, which is located on the premises, which is a reproduction of what prisoners actually eat in Abashiri Prison today.
It’s a set lunch with a focus on fish, and is said to be surprisingly delicious.
You don’t need to go all the way to Abashiri to eat here, but if you have time, it’s a good idea to visit if you’re in the Abashiri area.
