I am now in Hokkaido, leading my annual winter photo tour. Participants and I joined an unforgettable journey into the culture and traditions of the Ainu, Japan’s First Nations people. The Ainu’s sacred beliefs revolve around maintaining harmony with the kamuy—spiritual beings inhabiting the natural world. The term “kamuy” shares a linguistic similarity with the Japanese words “kami” (神, god) and “hotoke” (仏, spirit), yet its meaning and cultural significance are uniquely Ainu.
The Iomante Fire Festival: Honoring the Kamuy
A centrepiece of our day was the Iomante Fire Festival, an Ainu ceremony expressing gratitude to the kamuy for their gifts, such as the Ussuri brown bear (Ursus arctos lasiotus). The bear is believed to visit the human world to provide sustenance, and the Iomante ceremony is a profound act of sending the kamuy’s spirit back with respect and thanks. Although the festival was scaled back in 2020 due to the pandemic, it returned in 2024 with its full grandeur, offering participants an unparalleled opportunity to experience this sacred tradition from a front-row perspective.
Preserving Cultural Identity Through Art and Tradition
The Ainu’s resilience in preserving their cultural identity amidst historical challenges is evident in their rich artistic heritage. In 1984, Ainu dance was designated an “Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property” and included in UNESCO’s “Intangible Cultural Heritage” list in 2009. It powerfully embodies the spirituality and community values of the Ainu people, making it an essential cultural expression worthy of preservation and appreciation.
Participants marvelled at the craftsmanship of Nibutani attus (bark-cloth textiles) and Nibutani ita (wooden trays adorned with intricate carvings), both officially designated as Traditional Crafts of Hokkaido. These creations, steeped in tradition and passed down orally by Ainu elders, reflect a deep connection to nature and the spiritual world. Visits to Ainu Kotan villages provided an intimate look at these artistic treasures and the stories they tell.
In fact, thanks to my deep connections with the region and the Ainu, since some of my participants were keenly interested in authentic Ainu textile creation, I made a few phone calls, reached out to some close friends, and organized a seminar as part of this year’s workshop. The day not only included amazing, once-in-a-lifetime opportunities for photography but also an equally unique experience of seeing Ainu textiles being created firsthand.
Discover the Spirit of Hokkaido
For those seeking an authentic cultural and photographic adventure, the Hokkaido Photo Tour offers a window into the majestic traditions of the Ainu. From the spiritual ceremonies to the natural wonders of Japan’s northernmost island, this journey celebrates cultural heritage, resilience, and the enduring beauty of the land and its people.
