Ainu (the indigenous people of northern Japan)

The Ainu are an indigenous people native to northern Japan, particularly Hokkaido, and parts of Russia. They have a unique culture, language, and traditions distinct from the mainstream Japanese population. Historically, the Ainu relied on hunting, fishing, and gathering for sustenance, and their spiritual beliefs center around nature and animism. Despite centuries of marginalization and cultural suppression, efforts are ongoing to preserve and revitalize Ainu heritage, including language and customs. Today, they are recognized as an indigenous group with special rights and cultural acknowledgment in Japan, playing a vital role in the nation’s cultural diversity.