Participating in a kamuy-nomi, a rite for a safe hike; entering an iwor forest overlooking Mount Oakan; delighting in the melodies of the mukkuri, or trying on Ainu attire.
Those are some of the many activities organized at Upopoy, the first Museum and National Park in Japan dedicated to the Ainu ethnic group, to bring visitors closer to the tribe’s lifestyle and history
Ainu National Park and Museum
The Ainu lead a sustainable lifestyle, taking only what they need from the forests and waters that give them life, and constantly showing their gratitude to the Kamuy for their generosity.
However, the number of members of the ethnic group is decreasing, complicating the preservation of these traditions. Furthermore, since the understanding of this culture is limited, the number of people who speak and understand the Ainu language has decreased over the years.
Thus, intending to promote and preserve the Ainu culture, in Shiraoi (Hokkaido) is Upopoy, the Ainu National Park and Museum, which opened its doors in July 2020. The name means ‘singing in a large group’ in the Ainu language and reflects the goal and mission of the facility: to provide a place for visitors to learn and come together as a community and to foster a culturally diverse society in which indigenous peoples are treated with respect.
Upopoy
The Upopoy facility is the first dedicated to Ainu history and culture. It consists of a museum, an open-air cultural center, and a memorial, allowing visitors to experience and interact with Ainu culture.
In the main exhibition hall, which is free to walk around, is the temptempa, an interactive space whose name means “touch and feel the different elements” and offers the opportunity to delve into the Ainu culture through models, dioramas, and puzzles based on the six themes of the permanent exhibition (language, the universe (spirituality and customs), lifestyle, history, work and interaction with other indigenous tribes).
The museum also has a unique exhibition hall displaying the latest discoveries and findings about the Ainu culture and other aspects related to other indigenous peoples and cultures of Japan.
Immerse yourself in the Ainu Culture
Nature and culture intermingle on this Ainu-guided walk through the forests of Lake Akan, which is home to an Ainu settlement on its shores. Before starting the excursion, the Ainu guide will invite visitors to participate in a kamuy-nomi, a prayer rite for a safe journey. Once the prayer is over, the route will begin through the forest near Akanko Onsen, which the Ainu consider an iwor, a traditional living space for them.
Then, along a gentle and scenic trail overlooking Mount Oakan, halfway through the tour, the guide will delight the participants with melodies played on a traditional instrument called mukkuri.
Finally, the excursion will conclude with a photo opportunity in formal Ainu attire. A valuable opportunity not only to get a glimpse of the Ainu culture and way of life but also to learn about them directly from a member of the ethnic group.
Center for the Promotion of Ainu Culture
The Center for the Promotion of Ainu Culture in Sapporo displays more than 300 pieces of indigenous art, textiles, and tools. It offers a taste of the culture and history of the Ainu people, such as a replica of a fishing boat or their footpaths, which are decorated with carved figures and traditional monuments.
Visitors can also use a computer to learn about the pronunciation of the Ainu language and learn about the close historical ties between Hokkaido and the Ainu and the influence of the Dutch, Russians, and Americans.
In addition, in collaboration with the center, the Sapporo branch of the Hokkaido Association holds workshops to learn how to make mukkuri, an Ainu instrument, and traditional embroidery.
