Ainu (people)
The Ainu are an indigenous people of Japan, primarily found in Hokkaido, though some also live in parts of Russia. They have a distinct culture, language, and traditions that differ from mainstream Japanese society. Traditionally, the Ainu relied on fishing, hunting, and gathering for their livelihoods. Their spirituality is closely tied to nature, with a belief in various spirits associated with animals, plants, and natural features. Over the years, the Ainu have faced challenges in preserving their cultural identity due to assimilation pressures. Recently, there has been a resurgence in efforts to protect and promote Ainu culture and rights.
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The Ainu people are an indigenous group primarily found in Hokkaido, Japan, as well as parts of Russia's Kuril Islands and Sakhalin. They have a distinct culture, language, and traditional practices that set them apart from Japan's dominant ethnic group. Historically, the Ainu relied on fishing, hunting, and gathering for their livelihoods. They believe in animism, worshiping spirits in nature. The Ainu faced significant cultural assimilation and discrimination, but efforts have been made to preserve and revive their language and traditions. In 2008, the Japanese government officially recognized the Ainu as an indigenous people, acknowledging their unique heritage.