Japanese Folk Toy Museum Doshinkan - Hokkaido

The Japanese Folk Toy Museum Doshinkan (日本郷土玩具館童心館) is a folk toy museum located at 256 Sannaimura in the village of Kamoenai, Furu District, Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan.

Japanese Folk Toy Museum Doshinkan

Japanese Folk Toy Museum Doshinkan Details

Suppose you’re a fan of traditional culture, childhood memories, or simply want to experience a unique slice of Japanese heritage. In that case, the Japanese Folk Toy Museum Doshinkan is a must-visit destination. Located in the peaceful village of Kamoenai in Hokkaido’s Furu District, this charming museum offers visitors a heartwarming journey into Japan’s rich toy-making history.

Japanese Folk Toy Museum Doshinkan - Kamoenai Village, Hokkaido Prefecture

A School Transformed into a Treasure Trove of Traditional Toys

The museum’s building itself has an interesting backstory. Once the Sannai Elementary and Junior High School, this historic school was carefully renovated and repurposed in September 1998 to house an impressive collection of traditional toys. Walking through its halls, you’ll find yourself surrounded by centuries-old artifacts that bring to life the playful spirit of Japan’s past.

Monument commemorating the 100th anniversary of the founding of the former Kamienai Village Sannai Elementary School

Japanese Folk Toy Museum Doshinkan facade

Beautiful flowers were in full bloom in the small garden in front of the museum

Explore Japan’s Rich Toy Heritage from the Edo Period to Today

The collection features an extensive array of folk toys and kites originating from various regions across Japan. Many of these toys have been lovingly handed down through generations since the Edo period (1603–1868), showcasing the craftsmanship and creativity of local artisans. From intricately designed wooden dolls to vibrant kites soaring high in imagination, every piece tells a story of cultural tradition and childhood joy.

Japanese Folk Toy Museum Doshinkan Exhibits*

* I posted only a handful of photos of the exhibits, and I purposely didn't label them so that you would only get a glimpse of what the Japanese Folk Toy Museum Doshinkan has to offer. Please visit it and enjoy it with your own eyes.

A Vast Collection Celebrating Japan’s Folk Art and Traditions

The Japanese Folk Toy Museum Doshinkan houses an impressive collection that truly captures the essence of Japan’s traditional craftsmanship. With approximately 4,500 Japanese folk toys in its possession, around 2,300 of these are permanently on display. Visitors can admire a wide variety of items, including charming clay dolls, delicate papier-mâché figures, classic kokeshi dolls, and expressive masks, each representing different regions and cultural stories. The museum also boasts an extensive collection of about 1,000 traditional kites, with roughly 400 showcased year-round.

Even the ticket of the Japanese Folk Town Museum Doshinkan looks nice

These kites come from all over Japan, highlighting regional styles and kite-making traditions that have been passed down through generations. Additionally, the museum features around 300 folk crafts from Hokkaido itself, with approximately 200 of these artifacts exhibited regularly. Together, these collections offer visitors a rich, immersive experience into the world of Japanese folk art and heritage.

Team Nicerio visits the Japanese Folk Toy Museum Doshinkan

On October 8, 2023, my family and I visited the Japanese Folk Toy Museum Doshinkan during the second day of our three-day “Sports Day 2023” road trip. This date also marked my 706th day in Japan as an ALT with the JET Programme—a special milestone in my journey here. Our visit to this unique museum was our first stop in the quaint village of Kamoenai, nestled in a remote corner of Hokkaido.

The museum offers a fascinating glimpse into Japan’s rich heritage of traditional toys and games. Inside, we found a wonderful collection of folk toys from various regions, many of which date back centuries. What made the experience even more memorable was the opportunity for visitors—especially kids—to try out and play some of these classic games firsthand. It was truly a delightful and family-friendly destination, perfect for sparking nostalgia and fun for all ages.

 

Japanese Folk Toy Museum Doshinkan Admission Fee

Japanese Folk Toy Museum Doshinkan ticket booth

Adults (high school students and older): 400 yen

Teenagers (middle school students and older): 300 yen

Children (ages 4 and up): 200 yen

Groups of 15 or more receive a 50 yen discount per person.

Japanese Folk Toy Museum Doshinkan Operating Hours

The Japanese Folk Toy Museum is open from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM (Open from May 1st to the end of October).

Closed every Tuesday (or the following day if Tuesday is a public holiday).

Closed from November through the end of April.

 

Why Visit the Japanese Folk Toy Museum Doshinkan?

Visiting the Japanese Folk Toy Museum Doshinkan offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience Japan’s rich cultural heritage through its traditional toys and crafts. The museum’s extensive collection not only showcases exquisite craftsmanship but also tells the stories and traditions of different regions across Japan. 

It’s an engaging and educational experience for visitors of all ages—families, history enthusiasts, and culture lovers alike. Kids especially enjoy the interactive aspect, where some traditional games and toys can be tried firsthand, making learning fun and memorable. Located in the serene village of Kamoenai, the museum also provides a peaceful retreat from busy city life, allowing visitors to connect with Japan’s nostalgic past in a warm, welcoming environment.

Getting to the Japanese Folk Toy Museum Doshinkan

 

There are no trains to the Japanese Folk Toy Museum Doshinkan. The best way to reach it is by rental car.

You can ride the Chuo Bus Shiokaze Line from Iwanai Terminal to Kamoenai Port Mae bus stop. From there, you can ride a taxi to the Japanese Folk Toy Museum Doshinkain.

Travel time: 1 hour

Fare: 1000 yen + taxi fare

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