About
This place, standing quietly on the land of Abashiri, is a witness to history engraved by the passage of time. The group of wooden buildings, which still convey the spirit of the Meiji era, evoke the presence of former prisoners. The cell blocks, spreading out in a five-wing radial pattern, were designed so that everything could be seen from the central watchtower, allowing for efficient surveillance even with a small number of guards. It is said that this structure was modeled after the Leuven Prison in Belgium. (mapple.net)
The chapel, while having an exterior resembling a Japanese-style temple, features Western-style design elements inside. Here, monks and pastors provided prisoners with spiritual and ethical guidance, encouraging them on the path to rehabilitation. There are three round central decorations with reliefs on the ceiling, demonstrating the high design standards and construction techniques of the time. (jalan.net)
In the bathhouse, under the watchful eyes of the guards, prisoners cleansed themselves under strict time limits: three minutes for bathing, three minutes for washing the body, three minutes for bathing, and three minutes for washing the face. Bathing within this short period was one of the few pleasures for them. (jalan.net)
There also remains an anecdote about Yoshie Shiratori, known as the “Escape King of the Showa Era.” He attempted to escape from this place, and the scene of his attempt has been recreated. Looking up at the ceiling, you can see Shiratori trying to escape from a solitary cell. (tabirai.net)
Furthermore, you can taste the “prison meal” that recreates the food currently served to inmates at Abashiri Prison. This meal, consisting of barley rice, grilled fish, a small dish, a medium dish, and miso soup, is surprisingly reputed to be delicious. (jalan.net)
By visiting this place, you can gain a deep understanding of the history of Hokkaido’s development, the lives of the prisoners, and the roles they played. Why not listen to the voices of history echoing in the silence, and feel the flow of time at this place where past and present intersect?