The Historical Village of Hokkaido—also known as Kaitaku no Mura—is one of the most unique open-air museums in Japan. Located in Atsubetsu Ward, Sapporo, this living history village recreates life during the Meiji, Taisho, and early Showa periods, allowing visitors to walk through restored traditional houses, shops, and public buildings from Hokkaido’s pioneering era.

The Historical Village of Hokkaido (Kaitaku no Mura)

We visited the place in winter 2024, and winter proved to be a magical time to explore the Historical Village. The snowy scenery made the wooden buildings look even more picturesque, and many visitors were enjoying the nostalgic atmosphere dressed in winter clothing.

Inside Historical Building

Inside one of the building, you can see how Japanese people in Hokkaido lived in the past. The inside of some buildings were constructed in a way simulating the past lifestyle, from the traditional fireplace to even the wooden sandals and tatami room.

Hina Doll Festival Display & Traditional Meal

During our visit, the Hina Doll Festival (Hinamatsuri) was approaching, so many buildings inside the village displayed beautiful Hina doll sets. What fascinated me most was how the design of each doll reflected different historical periods, from the Meiji era to the Heisei period. Some faces were delicately painted, while others had more modern expressions—almost like a timeline of Japanese craftsmanship. If you want to enjoy the Hina doll exhibition, plan your visit between late February and early March, as several museums in Hokkaido also celebrate this festival.

Inside the village, you can try Tondenhei Teishoku, a traditional meal once served to Hokkaido pioneers. The set includes miso oden, which was especially delicious and perfect for warming up in the cold weather. This is a highly recommended experience if you want to taste authentic historical cuisine.

Winter Activities: Snow Sliding

One of the most fun surprises was the winter snow sliding area. Visitors—especially families—can ride traditional wooden sleds and enjoy the snow just like children did in old Hokkaido. This makes the museum not only educational but also entertaining for kids.