I visited the Urausu Town Local History Museum during one of our family road trips in Hokkaido, and it was a surprisingly fascinating stop. The museum may look modest from the outside, but inside, it holds a meaningful collection that reflects the town’s rich local heritage. I enjoyed seeing the exhibits that showcased Urausu’s early days, from its agricultural roots to the daily life of people who helped shape the community. The displays of farming tools, household items, and historical photographs gave me a clear glimpse of how life used to be in this quiet town. What I appreciated most was how personal the museum felt. Each item seemed to tell a story, and the staff were friendly and eager to share information about Urausu’s history. It wasn’t a big or modern museum, but it had a very local charm that made the visit special. Walking through the exhibits, I could sense the pride the town has in preserving its identity and traditions. Overall, visiting the Urausu Town Local History Museum gave me a deeper appreciation for the simple yet meaningful history of rural Hokkaido. It’s a peaceful stop for anyone interested in local culture and a nice way to understand the everyday lives of people who built the community long before it became the town we see today.

+3

For somewhere free, it was incredibly good. There were lots of stuffed animals and birds lined up, and although it wasn't very connected to Sakamoto Ryoma himself, there was a lot of history about his relatives. Things like combs, glasses, and paints used back then. The elderly man at reception was lovely, too, and I enjoyed the visit. One thing that struck me was the complete ban on photography inside. It would be better to let more people take photos and promote it by saying, “This place was so good!

It's introduced as a place connected to Sakamoto Ryoma. The museum also emphasizes Ryoma, with a special exhibit booth. Strictly speaking, it was Ryoma's relatives who came here. Materials about Naoyuki Sakamoto, famous for the illustrations used by Rokkatei, are also displayed, allowing you to learn about the Sakamoto family's activities here. Several farms were also established in this area. One of them, Iwamura Farm, was developed by the son of Michitoshi Iwamura, who contributed to building Sapporo, so historical materials and calligraphy by Michitoshi Iwamura are displayed as well. Relatives of Hanpeita Takechi also settled here and developed Misono Farm. Looking at Urausu's settlement history through the fact that relatives of leading Tosa patriots came here makes it even more interesting, so do visit.

Perhaps because I visited on a weekday, there were no other visitors. Admission is free, but you sign the guestbook at reception before entering. There is a section about Sakamoto Ryoma's family. Excavated artifacts, Ainu culture, everyday items, and farming tools are also exhibited, although it feels like the organizing hasn't caught up. Photography is prohibited inside.

Saw a letter handwritten by Sakamoto Ryoma Wonderful that it's free The gentleman managing it was kind and courteous, too Even got a souvenir on the way out♪ It would be perfect if photography were allowed