Uemura Naomi Memorial Museum

Toyooka's Famous Mountaineer

Uemura Naomi was born in Hidaka, a town in modern-day Toyooka City, and is world-renowned as one of man-kind’s most accomplished adventurers.

He began his hobby of climbing during his years at university, and then worked part time in France at a ski-resort where his love for climbing continued to grow. He continued to travel across the world, conquering mountain peaks and traveling to remote areas alone.

Among his many adventures, Naomi’s most famous achievements include being the first person to climb to the top of Mt. Denali in Alaska solo in winter, sailing the Amazon River on a handmade raft, and being the first person to reach the North Pole solo by dog sled.

During his descent from Mount Denali, Uemura Naomi lost contact and has never been heard from since.

The Uemura Naomi Memorial Museum is located in Hidaka, not far from Naomi’s childhood home.

Exhibits include postcards Naomi wrote to family and friends, equipment used during his adventures, and hands-on activities for children and adults such as a climbable dogsled, tent, and a 25 kg backpack visitors can try and carry like Naomi did on his trips.

Also found in the museum is CAFE iNUUK, a small cafe that serves Starbucks coffee, and a gift shop selling Uemura Naomi original goods.

Donguri Base

One of Uemura Naomi’s dreams was to open a school for children to learn about adventuring and enjoy outdoor activities.

Donguri Base, an indoor and outdoor play area behind the Uemura Naomi Memorial Museum, houses a wide array of activities for both children and adults such as tree climbing, a rock climbing wall, camping, and an indoor net playground.