Depiction of an Ainu man by a Japanese explorer.

Illustration of Ainu people fishing on byobu wall screens.

Omusha is the Ainu word for "greetings". However, it became loosely related to the Japanese word "onsha" meaning "favor and gratitude" which turned the Ainu ceremony of welcoming guests into a place where the Japanese reinforced their rule over the…

Ainu-e by Japanese artist. Observe the differences in the depiction between the Japanese and the Ainu.

Tuki and iku-pasuy are both essential items in Ainu festivals and rituals.

Tonkori is a traditional Ainu, stringed instrument.

"a series of wood sculptures created in the guise of fanciful creatures. Standing only about a foot and a half tall with little wing- and tail-like appendages, they really seem like a vision witnessed in the early hours. They are created of a light…