Ainu (indigenous people)

The Ainu are an indigenous people native to northern Japan, primarily Hokkaido, and parts of Russia’s Far East. Traditionally, they are hunter-gatherers who relied on fishing, hunting, and foraging. Their unique language, culture, and customs distinguish them from the majority Japanese population. Historically marginalized and facing cultural assimilation, the Ainu have worked to revive their traditions, language, and identity. Recognized as an indigenous group by the Japanese government in recent years, they play a vital role in Japan’s cultural diversity and history. Their heritage reflects a rich connection to nature and a distinct worldview rooted in their traditional practices.