🗺️ Kushiro City Museum釧路市立博物館

Opened in 1936, this place allows visitors to understand the rich nature and history of the Kushiro area. The current museum was established in 1983. It is located on a high ground overlooking the national natural monument, Lake Harutori, and the most eye-catching feature is its uniquely shaped building. The horizontal staircase design resembles the outstretched wings of the red-crowned crane, which represents Hokkaido. Upon entering the museum, visitors are greeted by a replica of a woolly mammoth skeleton, measuring 3.5 meters long, 2.9 meters high, and with tusks that are 2.5 meters long. The impressive presence of this exhibit draws everyone's attention once again. Additionally, various specimens and materials are displayed, including taxidermy specimens of black bears, red-crowned cranes, and Ezo deer, showcasing the natural characteristics and wildlife of the Kushiro region. The exhibits also provide a wealth of information about the history and industries of Kushiro from the Jomon period to modern times, including artifacts from the indigenous Ainu people of Hokkaido. Items such as everyday tools, clothing, and utensils used in the past reveal what life was like during that time. The knowledge gained here is sure to deepen the memories of traveling in Kushiro.

You can learn about the nature and history of Kushiro. The buildings are uniquely designed with the red-crowned crane as the theme. There are replicas of mammoth skeletons, as well as taxidermy specimens and 3D models of black bears, red-crowned cranes, and Ezo deer, along with original animations that are worth seeing. There is also an exhibition area introducing the Ainu culture of the Kushiro region.