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Turkansaari Open-Air Museum: A Journey into Northern Finnish History

Discover Northern Finland's heritage at Turkansaari Open-Air Museum: traditional buildings, historical trades, and beautiful riverside scenery.

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The Turkansaari Open-Air Museum, located on islands in the Oulujoki River, offers a captivating glimpse into Finland's past. Explore historical wooden buildings, experience traditional livelihoods like tar burning and salmon fishing, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Northern Ostrobothnian countryside.

A brief summary to Turkansaari Open-air museum

  • Monday 10 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Check the museum's event calendar for demonstrations of traditional crafts like tar burning or special celebrations.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the island and exploring the various buildings.
  • Visit during the summer months for the most lively atmosphere and to participate in hands-on workshops.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy by the Oulujoki River, or grab a bite at the museum's café.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Oulu city center, take bus number 40 or 41. Bus 41 stops at 'Turkansaari th E'. From there, it's approximately a 1.5 km walk to the museum. Bus 40 stops near Sanginsuu School, about 3.2 km from the museum. A single bus ticket costs around €3.00.

  • Walking

    If you enjoy walking, you can hike from Oulu city center to Turkansaari Open-air museum. The distance is about 8 kilometers and will take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Follow the walking trails along the river, which offer scenic views. Once you arrive at Turkansaarentie, the museum will be clearly marked.

  • Car

    The easiest route to Turkansaari by car is via Kainuuntie (Valtatie 22). From Oulu city center, follow Kainuuntie and watch for Turkansaari signposts. Turn left at the Turkansaarentie junction and follow the signs. Parking is available at the museum. Driving from the city center takes approximately 20 minutes. There are designated parking spaces for mobility impaired people in the front corner of the parking area. You must have a parking card to use these parking spaces.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from Oulu city center to Turkansaari takes approximately 16 minutes and costs between €30 and €40. Taxi stands are available in the city center.

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Discover more about Turkansaari Open-air museum

Step back in time at the Turkansaari Open-Air Museum, a living testament to Northern Finnish rural life. Situated on scenic islands in the Oulujoki River, about 14 km east of Oulu, this museum transports you to a world of traditional skills, beliefs, and livelihoods. The museum's collection boasts over 70 historical wooden buildings, carefully preserved and relocated from various parts of Northern Finland. Wander through farmhouses, forestry huts, windmills, a schoolhouse, and the charming Turkansaari Church, dating back to 1694. These structures collectively narrate the story of rural Finnish life through the centuries. Experience the region's historical trades, including tar-making, salmon fishing, lumbering, and log floating. The Ylikärppä House offers a glimpse into early 1900s farmer life, while the Parttuainen Logging and Forestry Manor showcases the post-war period and the lives of logging workers. Throughout the year, Turkansaari hosts various events and activities, including craft demonstrations, seasonal celebrations, and guided tours. During the summer, visitors can participate in hands-on workshops and witness historical reenactments. The museum also features a café serving refreshments. Opened in 1925, the Turkansaari Open-Air Museum is celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2025. The museum is dedicated to recording, cherishing, and revitalizing the culture, traditions, and daily life of Oulu and Northern Finland.

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