Screening of the Documentary “Ainu: Indigenous People of Japan”

In the documentary “Ainu: Indigenous People of Japan” (2019), director Naomi Mizoguchi explores the various efforts of contemporary Ainu people to reclaim and pass on their cultural identity.

The film follows the daily lives of four elderly members of the Ainu community living in Biratori, Hokkaido. Born in the 1930s, they grew up during a time when prejudice against Ainu identity was widespread, and as a result, they were not taught the Ainu language by their families.

After decades of changing social attitudes, they became interested in rediscovering their heritage and emerged as active community leaders dedicated to revitalizing Ainu language and culture. The documentary focuses on their personal experiences and their efforts to preserve history and tradition through language classes and participation in everyday cultural activities.

The film highlights how Ainu culture and traditions continue to survive and flourish thanks to the commitment of community members, offering hope that this unique heritage will be passed on to future generations.

Registration: Not required
Language: Japanese with English subtitles