Abashiri Prison Museum

The Abashiri Prison Museum is the only prison museum in Japan, exhibiting the former Abashiri Prison's cell blocks, chapel, and administration building. The premises feature eight important cultural properties and six registered tangible cultural properties, highlighting their significant historical value. The cell blocks and central watchtower are the oldest wooden cell blocks in the world, arranged in a radial pattern with five blocks and a total of 226 cells. Visitors can actually enter these cells and experience the life of prisoners.

Additionally, a beautiful collection of wooden buildings from the Meiji to Taisho eras can be explored, and the Prison History Hall offers insights into the labor of inmates. The prison cafeteria serves meals recreated from those of current prisons, and visitors can purchase original merchandise at the museum shop. This museum provides a multifaceted learning experience in architecture, history, and human life, making it worthwhile to visit.

Located in Abashiri City in eastern Hokkaido, the Abashiri Prison Museum is also recommended for architecture enthusiasts, as it allows for the appreciation of architecture from the late 19th century to the early 20th century.

Basic Information

Spot Name: Abashiri Prison Museum
Location: 〒099-2421 1-1, Yobito, Abashiri City, Hokkaido, Japan
Access: Take the Abashiri Bus facility tour line from JR Abashiri Station for about 10 minutes and get off at the "Museum of Abashiri Prison," which is a short walk away.
By car: It takes about 30 minutes from Hokkaido Memanbetsu Airport via National Route 39, covering a distance of 18 km.
Parking: 400 cars
Business Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
*Last admission is until 4:00 PM.
Regular Holiday: Closed on December 31 and January 1.
Fees: Adults: 1,500 yen
High school students: 1,000 yen (student ID required)
Elementary and middle school students: 750 yen
Contact Information: Phone Number：0152-45-2411
Official Website: https://www.kangoku.jp/