X

Akanko Ainu Kotan

Hokkaido

Art on the Shores of Akan

In the east of Hokkaido, on the shores of Lake Akan, Ainu Kotan is the village that over 120 indigenous Ainu still call home.

The Ainu are the native people of Hokkaido – mostly hunters and fishermen, they were the earliest settlers of Japan's northern-most region. At Ainu Kotan, guests can visit one of Japan's best-preserved ancient villages and discover the Ainu's indigenous culture through craft and tradition that has been passed down generations into the modern day.

With over 20 traditional craft shops, the village is famed for its woodcraft, accessories, decorations, more – including genuine pieces from world-famous woodcarvers and breath-taking Ainu patterned embroidery.

Plus, with the opportunity to hear ancient mukkuri and tonkori musical instruments, guests can watch the Ainu's unique songs and dances for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Find out more

Plan your trip

Use our interactive map to discover everything there is to do around Japan.

Choose another filter:

Choose another filter:

Nature Wellness Food Luxeat

My Itinerary

Your personalised itinerary of craft, wellness, nature and food experiences across the unique regions and hidden corners of Japan.

Find out more

Go Beyond

Discover more curated experiences in Japan’s hidden corners.

Find out more
Generic selectors
Exact matches only
Search in title
Search in content
experience
page