【Upopoy】Shiraoi, Hokkaido | New Design for Annual Passport Unveiled

Upopoy (Symbolic Space for Ethnic Harmony), operated by the Ainu Culture Promotion and Research Foundation (Chuo Ward, Sapporo; President Teruji Tsunamoto), announced a new design for its annual passport on June 27, 2026 (Sat).

One design carefully expresses the charm and dignity of Ainu culture.

The other features a friendly, accessible design by picture book author Sora, creator of Upopoy's PR character “Tureppon,” aimed at first-time visitors and families.

Additionally, in conjunction with this launch, a new benefit has begun offering limited-edition promotional items at participating tenant stores for annual passport holders. These initiatives aim to further strengthen the Upopoy brand.

Comment from Sora:

"Since being given the opportunity to create Upopoy’s PR character ‘Tureppon,’ I have come to learn about the wonderful Ainu culture, in which everything is believed to possess a ramat (spirit). This new design was completed through hands-on experiences at Upopoy, including embroidery and wood carving. I hope it becomes a gentle gateway for many people, especially children, to engage with Ainu culture."

Overview of the Upopoy Annual Passport:

Price: Adults 2,000 yen, High School Students 1,000 yen

Available at: Ticket counters at the Entrance Building

Note: Current annual passport holders may switch to the new design free of charge

Annual Passport Member Benefits:

Eligibility: Customers who spend 500 yen or more at designated on-site tenants and present their annual passport

*While supplies last

Benefit: Receive a limited-edition promotional item designed by Sora

About Upopoy (Symbolic Space for Ethnic Harmony):

Opened in 2020 in Shiraoi Town, Hokkaido, as a center for the revitalization and creation of Ainu culture. Upopoy consists of the National Ainu Museum—the first national museum in Hokkaido, the National Park for Ethnic Harmony, an experiential field museum engaging all five senses, and a memorial facility dedicated to honoring the dignity of the Ainu people. Located beside Lake Poroto, surrounded by rich nature, visitors can experience Ainu culture and history in diverse ways.

Official Website: https://ainu-upopoy.jp/

Official Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ainumuseumpark/

Official Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upopoy/

Official YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@upopoy

Address: 2-3 Wakamatsu-cho, Shiraoi-cho, Shiraoi-gun, Hokkaido 059-0902

Phone: 0144-82-3914 (main)

Access: Approximately 10 minutes on foot from JR Shiraoi Station. About 40 minutes from New Chitose Airport via expressway or train.

Admission (tax included): General Adults 1,200 yen, High School Students 600 yen, Junior High and younger free

*Group rates available for parties of 20 or more. Does not include fees for paid experience programs or special exhibitions at the museum.

Opening Hours: 9:00–18:00

*Hours may vary by season

Closed: Mondays, December 28 to January 4, 2027, and February 27 to March 8. When Monday is a national holiday, closed the following weekday.

*Special opening days may apply

Opening Date: July 12, 2020

Designated Operator: Ainu Culture Promotion and Research Foundation, a Public Interest Incorporated Foundation