The Hokkaido Northern Territories Exchange Center, commonly known as Ni・Ho・Ro, is a facility in Nemuro designed to promote understanding and exchange regarding the Northern Territories issue.
Inside the center, visitors can explore exhibits on the history, nature, and culture of the four northern islands through photos, models, and videos presented in an easy-to-understand format.
Admission is free, and the center has become a popular learning spot for travelers visiting Nemuro.
Address: 110-9 Honoka, Nemuro, Hokkaido – View on Google Maps
You can reach the center from Nemuro Station either by bus or on foot.
Walking takes about 50 minutes, while taking the bus is quicker and more convenient.
Two different bus routes stop near the facility.
Bus Access
Route 1: Nemuro Kotsu “Atsunokke Line”
Boarding Point: Platform No. 2 at Nemuro Station — take the bus bound for Atsunokke
Bus Stop: Ni-Ho-Ro Iriguchi (Entrance)
Time: Approx. 10 min
Fare: ¥210 one way
Route 2: Nemuro Kotsu “Nakashibetsu Airport Line”
Boarding Point: Platform No. 1 at Nemuro Station — take the bus bound for Nakashibetsu Airport
Bus Stop: Ni-Ho-Ro Iriguchi (Entrance)
Time: Approx. 10 min
Fare: ¥210 one way
Both buses stop at Ni-Ho-Ro Iriguchi, and from there it’s about a 10-minute walk to the center.
Check the return bus schedule in advance, as the number of buses is limited.
On weekdays, there are only about seven services per day, with a few extra on weekends and holidays.
The bus stop for returning to Nemuro Station is located on the opposite side of the road.
The center was established to promote accurate knowledge and mutual understanding of the Northern Territories.
The name “Ni・Ho・Ro” symbolizes Japan (Ni) and Russia (Ro) connected through Hokkaido (Ho), representing friendship and exchange between the two nations.
The nickname was chosen through a public contest in 1999, and it reflects the idea of Hokkaido as a bridge between Japan and Russia.
Inside, visitors can see photos and videos documenting local exchanges between residents of Japan and Russia, as well as a short 15-minute film shown in a mini theater.
Multilingual displays are available in Japanese, English, and Russian, making the exhibits accessible to international visitors.
The Hokkaido Northern Territories Exchange Center, known as Ni・Ho・Ro, opened on February 7, 2000, to coincide with Northern Territories Day.
It was originally established to promote exchange and awareness related to the four northern islands and their residents.
Over time, it has evolved into a broader educational facility that introduces the history, culture, and natural environment of the Northern Territories.
The center has also served as a base for the visa-free exchange program between former Japanese residents of the islands and current Russian residents.
Rather than presenting the territorial issue solely as a political matter, the facility encourages visitors to view it through the lens of human connection and shared history.
The center is usually quiet, allowing visitors to take their time and explore at a relaxed pace.
The building is clean and well maintained, and its exhibits introduce both Japanese and Russian cultures.
Through photos and videos, visitors can learn about the daily lives and exchanges of the people who once lived on the Northern Islands.
In Japan, students usually learn about the “Northern Territories” in middle school.
However, many Japanese people may not be aware that visa-free exchanges once took place between residents of the islands and Japan.
This facility is not only valuable for international visitors but also for Japanese people themselves.
As with any history, perspectives can vary depending on who is telling the story or where it is told.
Even so, the photographs and videos here provide tangible facts that help visitors understand the past from multiple angles.
It is one of the few places in Japan where you can learn about a part of history that many Japanese are not familiar with.
Inside the reference room, there is a mini theater.To watch the video, simply ask the staff at the reception desk.
They will start the screening right away.You can choose the language — Japanese, English, or Russian.
Opening hours: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Closed: Mondays from November to April, and December 31 – January 5
(Open daily from May to October)
Admission: Free
Information as of August 15, 2025.
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