Guide
The Tsukigata Kabato Museum is a municipal museum located in Tsukigata Town, Hokkaido. This facility preserves the history of the 'Kabato Shūjikan,' a penal institution that housed political and criminal prisoners for 39 years from 1882 (Meiji 15) to 1919 (Taisho 8). The exhibits and structures serve as vital records of the social structures and the reality of prison life during Hokkaido's pioneering era. The museum complex consists of several key structures: the former Kabato Shūjikan Main Office Building (a historic wooden structure), the Main Building for historical exhibits, and the Annex, which showcases the works of sculptor Akiji Honda.
This site was once the location of the Kabato Shūjikan. For 39 years during the Meiji and Taisho eras, it served as a significant institution for many individuals. The surviving Main Office Building has a storied past; after being destroyed by fire in 1886, it was rebuilt and used as an office until 1919. It later served as the Tsukigata Town Hall until 1972, before being opened to the public as the 'Hokkaido Penal Institution Museum' in 1973. In 1996, it was renamed the 'Tsukigata Kabato Museum,' becoming a center for learning about Hokkaido's history and the evolution of the penal system. Today, it is recognized for its significant value as a Hokkaido Heritage site.
The museum is divided into three primary areas. First is the 'Former Kabato Shūjikan Main Office Building,' a wooden structure that evokes the atmosphere of the Meiji and Taisho eras. Second is the 'Museum Main Building,' which uses authentic materials to depict the daily lives and conditions of the Kabato Shūjikan. The second floor features a theater corner and an interactive section where visitors can experience the types of labor performed by prisoners, providing a multi-dimensional understanding of Hokkaido's development. Third is the 'Museum Annex.' Since April 2023, the 'Akaji Honda Gallery' has been open, showcasing the works of the renowned sculptor born in Tsukigata. The first floor of the annex also features exhibits regarding local nature and agriculture, offering a deep dive into regional history.
The museum is open from March 20 to November 30. Please note that the museum is closed for the winter season from December 1 to March 19. Operating hours are from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM, with the final admission at 4:30 PM. Visiting during daylight hours allows you to observe the intricate details of the historical architecture and the diorama displays under natural and artificial lighting. The theater corner in the Main Building and the gallery in the Annex are particularly well-suited for visitors looking for a focused, immersive experience in a controlled environment.
On the second floor of the Main Building, there is an interactive corner where you can experience the manual labor once performed by prisoners, offering a hands-on way to learn about historical lifestyles. The theater corner provides educational videos regarding the history of Hokkaido's pioneering era. Additionally, the Akaji Honda Gallery offers a chance to view art that captures the natural beauty of Hokkaido through a sculptor's eyes. The museum is highly educational, providing worksheets for students, making it an excellent destination for those seeking a practical and deep understanding of Japanese history.
The museum is located within the grounds of the Tsukigata Town Hall and offers ample parking. Please note that the nearby JR Gakuen-toshi Line Tsukigata Station was decommissioned in May 2020. Visitors should now use local buses or other public transportation. The surrounding area is characterized by the historic landscapes of Tsukigata Town; please check the official town website for the latest bus schedules and information.
To protect the historical architecture and exhibits, please follow all museum etiquette. While there is no strict dress code, we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. Cash is the primary method for paying admission fees. Regarding English support, please check on-site for the availability of English-language guides or materials. Some guided explanations may require advanced reservations. Photography restrictions may apply depending on the specific area or exhibit; please follow the instructions of the museum staff.