Yubari, a town in Hokkaido rich in nature and nationally famous for its "Yubari Melons." A slightly shocking and amusing sign in this town has become a hot topic on social media.

A sign that appeared just as I was getting anxious about the surrounding ruins.
I'll keep moving forward.

Image from @sakurako_zatsu's post

The large text reads, "Don't let the overwhelming sense of ruin discourage you! Keep going!" This refreshingly self-deprecating sign garnered comments on social media like, "I love the humor," and "The most reassuring sign ever," with the post receiving 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 while visiting the Yubari Coal Mining Museum to learn about the history of the coal industry.

The area around the museum is filled with the remains of a former amusement park, and Ms. Zatsugakuin, visiting for the first time, felt a bit 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 that greets you at the museum's entrance

A Museum Breathing with the History of Coal Mining, Full of Realism

However, the "self-deprecating humor" is just the beginning. As you proceed inside, you can see the actual mine shafts and equipment used in the coal mines up close, giving you a realistic sense of the time. The Yubari Coal Mining Museum is a spot packed 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 deep history of various places in Hokkaido!

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