Ainu

The Ainu people, indigenous to Japan, trace their roots back to prehistoric times. Known for their hunter-gatherer lifestyle, the Ainu relied on fishing, hunting, and foraging. They are also recognized for their rich oral traditions, which include stories about nature spirits and mythical animals. Bears, in particular, played a central role in Ainu culture, as they were seen as divine creatures. The Ainu lived in the northern regions of Japan, and their culture was distinct from that of the early Japanese societies. The Ainu’s animistic beliefs and reverence for nature set them apart from other groups in prehistoric Asia.