Ainu

Abstract

Ainu is an indigenous, urban/rural language with numerous dialects, located mostly on Japan’s northern island of Hokkaido. There is no clear diachronic grouping of Ainu with other languages. Ainu is traditionally an oral culture: literacy in Ainu by Ainu began in the nineteenth century through Anglican mission schools. Awareness of Ainu is increasing in Japanese society with the naming of commercial facilities and as a motif in pop subculture. Ainu language ceremonies and commemorative rituals are held regularly and Ainu is studied and taught in several higher education institutions in Japan. Despite political innovation, discrimination against the Ainu is deeply rooted. Governmental recognition of Ainu culture as ‘Important Intangible Folk Property’ and other official measures coincided with a vibrant and ongoing cultural revival movement.