Abashiri Prison Museum
博物館網走監獄
Abashiri Prison Museum, located in Abashiri, Hokkaido, Japan, is an open-air museum that offers visitors a glimpse into the history of Japan's penal system. The museum is situated on the site of the original Abashiri Prison, which was established in the late 19th century during the Meiji era. It played a crucial role in the development of Hokkaido by housing inmates who were tasked with constructing roads and other infrastructure. The museum complex includes various historical buildings that have been preserved or reconstructed, such as cell blocks, the main gate, the warden's office, and workshops. Exhibits provide detailed information about the daily lives of prisoners, the harsh conditions they endured, and the historical context of the prison's operations.