The History of the Akanko Ainu Kotan

The History
of the
Akanko
Ainu Kotan

The History of the Akanko Ainu Kotan picture

Kotan is a word that means "community" in the Ainu language. Even in the present, the Akanko Ainu Kotan is where many Ainu people live. The history of the Akanko Ainu Kotan began when Mitsuko Maeda, the third-generation owner of Maeda Ippoen, provided land to preserve the Ainu lifestyle, on which Ainu people who inherited traditional culture set up shops. They embody "tradition and innovation" by incorporating modern perspectives and techniques while treasuring their inheritance. In this place, one can feel the spirituality of the Ainu culture carefully protected and passed down by indigenous peoples of Japan, the Ainu people.

The History of the Akanko Ainu Kotan picture
Lake Akan Ainu Theater Ikor

Lake Akan
Ainu Theater
〈Ikor〉

Ancient Ritual Dance × Modern Dance ×
Digital Art

Lake Akan Ainu Theater Ikor picture

At the first Ainu folk dance theater in Japan, impactful performances such as "Lost Kamuy," "Ainu Ancient Ritual Dance," and "Fire Kamuy Verse" unfold. The rear of the stage has an open structure leading to the outdoors. The structure gives a sense of depth to the stage.

Facility overview/

Seating Capacity : 300

(Rear standing viewing capacity: 120)

Address 4-7-84 Akanko Onsen,
Akan-cho,
Kushiro-shi, Hokkaido
Inquires +81-0154-67-2727

See this homepage for specific times of
performances, etc.

➡ https://www.akanainu.jp/event
Lake Akan Ainu Theater Ikor picture
Culture Tradition and Creation「Onne cise」

Culture Tradition
and Creation
"Onne cise"

Ainu Culture Tradition and Creation

Culture Tradition and Creation「Onne cise」picture

Located on the slope of the Akanko Ainu Kotan, the Akanko Ainu Art Museum creates new culture while also preserving tradition. Traditional ceremonial items and household items are exhibited in the building, and an Ainu culture experience space is also available.

Culture Tradition and Creation「Onne cise」picture

Facility overview/

Opening days :

Summer(May-November)

Saturdays, Sundays, National Holidays

Winter(December-April)Closed

Opening hours : 10:00-16:30

※ Opening days and hours are subject to change.

Culture Tradition and Creation「Onne cise」picture

When you come, please check the latest information
from the latest information or call us in advance.

Admission fee Adults 500 yen (tax included),
children(elementary school students) 250 yen (tax included)
※Preschoolers are free
Address 4-7-19 Akanko Onsen,
Akan-cho,
Kushiro-shi, Hokkaido
Inquires +81-0154-67-2727 (Akan Ainu Crafts Cooperative)

For details and reservations for the Experience Tour, check out

➡ https://anytimeainutime.jp/tour/
Ainu Life Memorial Hall 「Pon cise」

Ainu Life Memorial Hall
"Pon cise"
(Small House)

Ainu Life Memorial Hall 「Pon cise」picture

A facility where you can get a glimpse of the life of the Ainu people who coexisted with the harsh nature. On display are household items and clothing from that time.

Opening days : Closed Irregularly

Opening hours : 10:00-16:30

Event Information

Red Salmon Festival
〜Kapatcep Nomi〜

Early July

The landlocked red salmon, known as himemasu in Japanese, is native to Lake Akan. This traditional Ainu ceremony offers thanks to the many spirits of nature for bountiful catches of red salmon.

Marimo Festival

October 8th, 9th, and 10th

The Marimo Festival has been held since 1950, with the goal of promoting conservation of the marimo. Attended by Ainu people from throughout Hokkaido, the festival features performances such as a torch parade and traditional Ainu dancing.

Experience Tour
Experience Tour image

A journey to touch wood and experience Ainu skills

Wood carving experience

( Required time / approx. 1 hr )

A program where you can experience carving Ainu patterns on wooden charms shaped like "tonkori," a traditional Ainu musical instrument.

Period of availability year-round
Starting hours ①11:00 onwards
②13:30 onwards
Minimum number of participants /
2(capped at 10)
For ages 4th grade and above
Participation fee Adults and children
¥5,000 per person
(tax included)

A journey toward an abundant spirit through embroidery

Embroidery experience

( Required time / approx. 1 hr )

Apply Ainu patterns to coasters made of cotton with the help of instructors such as Kayoko Nishida.

Period of availability year-round
Starting hours ①11:00 onwards
②13:30 onwards
Minimum number of participants /
2(capped at 10)
For ages 4th grade and above
Participation fee Adults and children
¥6,000 per person
(tax included)

Feel the blessings of nature

Ainu cuisine experience

( Required time / approx. 1 hr )

Ainu cuisine that makes use of the blessings of nature. Have a meal on a special day and experience the food culture that has been passed down.

Period of availability year-round
Starting hours Before and after each experience
Minimum number of participants /
Minimum number is 1
For ages All ages session
Participation fee Adults and children
¥3,500 per person
(tax included)

For details and reservations for the Experience Tour, check out

➡ https://anytimeainutime.jp/tour/