Fantastic place to learn about Ainu craftsmanship. Super friendly staff who was patient and kind with us, who don't speak Japanese. We were even shown the weaving technique. Definitely come by for one of their workshops!

2025·R7.9.6, first visit. It opened in 2019·H31 as a place to pass on Ainu craft traditions, and its name is said to come from the Ainu word "ウレｼパ", meaning 「nurturing one another」. Leading craftspeople also use it for their creative work, so you can see their techniques. Modern equipment such as a "laser processing machine" has been introduced, allowing Ainu patterns to be designed on metal tumblers and drink bottles. As a result, many types of hands-on programs are offered (for a small fee). Opening hours are 9~17; closed on Mondays (the following day if Monday is a public holiday) and 12/30~1/5. Admission itself is free. The "one-of-a-kind item" you make through an activity of your choice is sure to become a lifelong keepsake.

+3

Visited on 2025.9.15. I'd assumed we might be able to hand-carve Ainu patterns, but the actual activities involved combining parts with patterns already laser-engraved to make accessories, or laser-engraving a pattern of your choice onto tumblers and bottles. Since it was different from what I'd imagined, this time I just tried the original keychain capsule machine. But thinking about it, hand-carving would be pretty difficult in a limited amount of time. An アットゥシ artisan was working, and I got to hear a little about their work. アットゥシ is a textile made from tree bark. There was an アットゥシ suit on display, and it was incredibly cool. I absentmindedly forgot to take a photo.

+2

An Ainu craft facility in Nibutani Kotan. You can watch Ainu crafts from Biratori, including 二風谷イタ, being made and try making them yourself. Facilities like this are truly important for passing on culture and introducing it to more people. The map showing Hokkaido's municipalities with Ainu place names is interesting too. There is also a panel of サイレンススズカ from ウマ娘 on display inside. サイレンススズカ was a racehorse born in Biratori, and its grave is also in the town.

+3

Learning about Ainu customs and culture About Indigenous people Let's learn more The wonderful exhibits and many materials are deeply moving The discounted combined ticket with the day-use hot spring ゆとり is a good deal.