Indigenous peoples of Japan

Indigenous peoples of Japan primarily include the Ainu, an ethnolinguistic group native to Hokkaido, parts of Russia, and other northern regions. Historically distinct from the majority Yamato Japanese, the Ainu have their own language, culture, and practices centered around hunting, fishing, and crafts. They faced centuries of marginalization and assimilation policies, leading to cultural erosion. Today, there is renewed recognition and efforts to preserve Ainu identity, language, and heritage. The Ainu exemplify Japan’s rich cultural diversity and highlight the importance of respecting indigenous rights and traditions within the broader national context.