Ainu place names

Ainu place names are geographic names derived from the language of the Ainu, the indigenous people of northern Japan and parts of Russia. These names often describe natural features, such as rivers, mountains, or lakes, reflecting the Ainu’s deep relationship with their environment. Many Ainu place names have been preserved in local geography despite historical suppression of their culture. They often encode important cultural or ecological information, offering insights into traditional Ainu beliefs, practices, and the landscape’s significance. Recognizing these names helps acknowledge the Ainu’s historical presence and cultural heritage in the region.