The Abashiri Prison Museum is a unique tourist destination located in Abashiri, Japan. The museum is a former prison that now showcases the history and culture of the prison system in Japan. Visitors can learn about the daily lives of prisoners and see exhibits featuring prison artifacts and artwork created by inmates. The museum even has a replica of a prison cell that visitors can enter to get a feel for what it was like to be incarcerated. The surrounding area is also beautiful, with mountain ranges and stunning views of the Sea of Okhotsk.
The closest airport to Abashiri Prison Museum is Memanbetsu Airport. From there, visitors can take a bus or train to Abashiri city, which is about a 45 minute drive from the museum. Taxis are also available at the airport.
The best time to visit Abashiri Prison Museum is during the summer months of June through August when the weather is mild and the area is lush and green. However, the museum is also open year-round and visitors can enjoy winter activities such as ice fishing and snowshoeing.
The weather at Abashiri Prison Museum is cold and snowy in the winter, with temperatures averaging around -8°C (17°F). Summers are mild and pleasant, with temperatures averaging around 22°C (71°F).
Accommodation in Abashiri ranges from budget hostels to traditional ryokans or Japanese inns. Prices start at around ¥3,000 ($28 USD) per night for a hostel dorm room and go up to ¥20,000 ($190 USD) or more for a ryokan room with meals included.
Food in Abashiri is reasonably priced, with traditional Japanese dishes like sushi and ramen available at affordable prices. Groceries and snacks can also be found at local markets for a low cost.
Abashiri is considered a safe destination with a low crime rate. Women and LGBTQ individuals can feel safe and welcomed in this area.
Abashiri has a population of around 35,000 people and is home to a mix of Japanese and indigenous Ainu people. Japanese is the primary language spoken, and the majority of the population practices Buddhism.
Aside from visiting the Prison Museum, visitors can also take a cruise to see drift ice in the Sea of Okhotsk, explore the Abashiri Drift Ice Museum, go hiking in the nearby mountains, or take part in winter activities like ice fishing and snowshoeing.