171. The Ainu
Ainu necklaces at the Hakodate City Museum of Northern Peoples
Bear sculptures at the Kawamura Kaneto Ainu Memorial Museum in Asahikawa
The Ainu are the Indigenous people of northern Japan, with a unique culture, language, and history that have long been intertwined with the island of Hokkaido. Join Jason and Paul as they explore Ainu traditions and beliefs, their relationship with nature, the history of Japanese assimilation and discrimination, and the ongoing revival of Ainu culture today.
Topics Covered:
History
Language and Identity
Society and Daily Life
Clothing and Material Culture
Cuisine
Beliefs and Traditions
Cultural Revival
Where to Learn More