★Hidden gems of Hokkaido 2 ★ Arishima Memorial Museum
Niseko Town 「Arishima Memorial Museum」
「Journey to a land where literature breathes—a quiet and profound experience with the philosophy of Takeo Arishima in Niseko.」
“Arishima Memorial Museum,” a fascinating spot where literature and history converge in Niseko, Hokkaido, is a cultural facility that preserves the philosophy and legacy of Takeo Arishima, a great writer from the Taisho era. It was established in 1978 on the site of his former farm, symbolizing his spirit of “mutual aid.”
Known for works such as A Descendant of Cain and A Certain Woman, Takeo Arishima left his mark on literary history as a writer who sharply depicted social contradictions and the human psyche. However, his appeal goes beyond his work. He took the unprecedented step of giving away the vast Niseko farm he inherited from his businessman father, Arishima Take, to the tenant farmers for free. This act was based on his philosophy of “mutual aid” and had a profound impact on the agricultural history of Hokkaido.
The Arishima Memorial Museum was established on the site of that farm in 1978. Inside, visitors can find materials tracing Takeo Arishima’s life, including his handwritten manuscripts, photographs, and letters, allowing for a multifaceted understanding of his literary and social philosophies. The exhibits are organized to also touch on the historical context and his personal relationships, giving the museum a depth that goes beyond a simple literary hall and serves as a place to connect with his “way of life.”
Surrounding the museum is a landscape that retains the atmosphere of the former farm, welcoming visitors with the beauty of each season. Spring brings new greenery, summer offers a vibrant contrast of blue sky and lush green, autumn adds a splash of color with changing leaves, and winter’s blanket of snow provides a serene, soul-cleansing silence. This place, where the nature of Niseko and Arishima’s philosophy intersect, is a destination not only for tourists but also for those seeking a “journey of knowledge” to refresh their minds.
A local favorite, Takano Coffee Shop, is also located at the museum. Here, you can relax and enjoy a good book or conversation after viewing the exhibits. This unique space, where literature and nature come together, offers visitors a quiet sense of inspiration and a time for reflection.
- Address: 57 Arishima, Niseko-cho, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido
- Opening hours: 9:00-17:00 (entry until 16:30)
- Closed: Every Monday (if Monday is a public holiday, closed the following day), New Year’s holidays
- Admission fee: 500 yen for adults, 100 yen for high school students, free for junior high school students and younger
- Web site：https://www.town.niseko.lg.jp/arishima_museum/
