Keirinkan - Hokkaido

Keirinkan or Keirin Hall (恵林館) is a preserved historic building that is repurposed for the use of the community. It is located at 222-2 Midorimachi in the town of Shimokawa, Kamikawa District, Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan.

Keirinkan

Keirinkan Details

In the quiet town of Shimokawa, Hokkaido, stands Keirinkan—a charming, historic blue building that once served as the Shimokawa Regional Forestry Office. Today, it opens its doors to the public as a space dedicated to the town’s forestry roots, housing exhibits that reflect the deep connection between Shimokawa and its surrounding forests.

Keirinkan - Shimokawa town, Hokkaido Prefecture

A Glimpse into Shimokawa’s Forestry Legacy

Keirinkan functions as both an exhibition space and a small public library, lending books to residents and visitors alike. The displays offer insight into the local forestry industry—an integral part of Shimokawa’s history and identity. For those interested in rural development, environmental history, or sustainable forestry in Japan, the materials on display provide a thoughtful, if understated, educational experience.

Keirinkan facade

恵林館

A Nostalgic Space with Room to Grow

When my daughter and I visited Keirinkan, we were immediately drawn to its nostalgic architecture and quiet charm. Inside, we found a modest library, a piano, and a spacious hall—beautiful, yet noticeably underused. While the building holds incredible potential as a cultural hub or local museum, its current use feels minimal. It’s easy to imagine this space revitalized as a venue for art exhibits, historical showcases, or community events that bring Shimokawa’s story to life.

Inside Keirinkan

The mini-library inside the Keirinkan

There is a piano at the far end of the room

Future Possibilities for a Historic Landmark

With the right community engagement and creative direction, Keirinkan could evolve into a vibrant cultural center, highlighting not only Shimokawa’s forestry history but also local traditions, crafts, and stories. Until then, it stands as a quiet reminder of the town’s past—and a symbol of its potential for the future.

Team Nicerio visits Keirinkan

On July 15, 2023, my daughter and I visited Keirinkan for the very first time. It was during the first day of our Father and Daughter Road Trip #5, which was also my 621st day here in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme. We were lucky that during our visit, Keirinkan was open, albeit there were no staff inside to assist us. We were able to explore the nearly empty building, except for the mini library and the piano on one end. Regardless, we soaked ourselves in the historic aura of the building. Hopefully, someday, the local government will transform this building into a museum or something more “worth visiting” for tourists. 

Keirinkan Admission Fee

It’s FREE to enter Keirinkan.

Keirinkan Operating Hours

Keirinkan is open from 10 AM to 5 PM.

Keirinkan is closed during the winter (November to April) and also every Monday during the season that it is open to the public.

Why visit the Keirinkan?

Though there’s not much activity inside at the moment, Keirinkan remains a noteworthy stop for visitors who appreciate heritage architecture and small-town history. Its distinct blue exterior and peaceful ambiance make it a unique photo spot and a short but meaningful detour for culturally curious travelers.

Getting to Keirinkan

 

From Nayoro Station's bus stop, board the Okoppe Sen-bound bus operated by the Meishi Bus Company, and get down at the 25 Sen bus stop. Once there, walk a few meters to reach the Shimokawa Shrine grounds.

Travel time: 32 minutes

Fare: 470 yen

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