Hokkaido Ainu Center (Pirika Kotan)

Overview

The Hokkaido Ainu Center (Pirika Kotan, meaning 'beautiful village' in Ainu) is a cultural facility dedicated to preserving and sharing the heritage of Hokkaido's indigenous Ainu people. The center features exhibitions on Ainu history, traditional clothing, and musical instruments, as well as live performances of traditional dance and song.

Highlights

• Traditional Dance Performances: Live Ainu dance and mukkuri (mouth harp) performances on weekends.
• Hands-On Craft Workshops: Embroidery and wood-carving workshops teaching Ainu artistic techniques.
• Exhibition Hall: Displays of attush textiles, carved ikupasuy prayer sticks, and tonkori instruments.

History

Established by Sapporo City to promote understanding of Ainu culture, the center opened in 2003 within the Sapporo Community Plaza complex. It serves as both a cultural museum and a living community center where Ainu language classes and cultural events are regularly held.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Check the website for weekend dance performance schedules — they are the highlight of a visit.
• Tip 2: The center is free but somewhat out of the way — combine with Takino Suzuran Hillside Park if driving.
• Duration: 40–60 minutes.