Asahikawa Tondenhei Village Museum
Trace the resilient spirit of Hokkaido’s pioneers
Experience the origins of Asahikawa through authentic soldier-settler homes and precious artifacts that tell a story of courage and survival.
The history of Asahikawa began in 1891, when 400 households of Tondenhei (military settlers) arrived in this frozen wilderness. At the heart of the museum stands a "Tondenhei-ya," a meticulously reconstructed soldier's house. Stepping inside, you will see the dirt floor covered with straw mats where settlers worked through the night. The central sunken hearth (irori) was kept burning 24 hours a day, not just for warmth against the sub-zero temperatures, but also to keep insects away with its smoke—a vivid testament to their ingenuity in a harsh environment.
The museum also houses designated cultural properties, including the "Asahikawa Tondenhei Company Records" and original illustrations of the "Tonden Story." Every item on display—from farming tools and military uniforms to everyday household goods—carries the weight of the blood, sweat, and tears shed by those who laid the city’s foundations. In the quiet atmosphere of the hall, you can almost hear the breath of the pioneers as they gathered around the fire, dreaming of the future while carving a life out of the wild.
- * Please note that the text shown on this page includes machine translations.
- Nearest airports
General Information
- Postal code
- 〒078-8261
- Address
- 北海道旭川市東旭川南1条6丁目3-26
- Telephone Number
- 0166-36-2323
- Open
- 9:30-16:30
- Closed
- Tuesdays, Winter Closure (Late October to Late April)
- Car Park
- 25 spaces, free
- Directions
- ●By car: About 10 minutes from Hokkaido Expwy Asahikawa-Kita IC
●By car: About 25 minutes from JR Asahikawa Station
●By car: About 30 minutes from Asahikawa Airport - Website
* Information on facilities is subject to change. Please check each official website for the latest information.
