A sign that appeared just when I was getting worried because the surroundings were too much like ruins.
I'm heading straight on.

Image courtesy of @sakurako_zatsu's post

The large text reads, "Don't let the overwhelming sense of ruin defeat you! Keep moving forward!" This refreshingly self-deprecating sign garnered comments on social media like, "I love the sense of humor," and "The most reassuring sign ever," with the post receiving a huge response of over 70,000 likes.

A Humorous Sign to Encourage Visitors on Their Way to the Museum

The person who posted this was Sakurako Zatsugakuin, who travels around Hokkaido sharing the charms of various places. She reportedly found this sign when she visited the Yubari Coal Mine Museum to learn about the history of the coal industry.

The area around the museum is dotted with the remains of a former amusement park, which made Ms. Zatsugakuin, a first-time visitor, a little anxious, wondering, "Am I really in the right place?" This sign empathizes with such visitors' feelings and gives them a humorous push forward.

An amusing exhibit at the museum's entrance that makes you chuckle

A Fully Immersive Experience! A Museum Where the History of Coal Mining Comes to Life

However, the "self-deprecating humor" is just the beginning. As you proceed through the museum, you can see the actual mine shafts and equipment used in the coal mines up close, giving you a realistic sense of what it was like back then. The Yubari Coal Mine Museum is a spot filled with the history and romance of the coal industry that supported Japan's modernization.

Exhibits inside the museum that convey the history of the coal industry

Ms. Zatsugakuin's YouTube channel also introduces the highlights of the museum. Be sure to check out her videos to experience the profound history of various places in Hokkaido!

Photos and interview cooperation: Sakurako Zatsugakuin
■X (formerly Twitter): @sakurako_zatsu
■YouTube Channel: @sakurako_zatsugaku