Religion of Ainu People

Ainu people believe that souls existed in every natural thing, from the vast northern plateau to the endless sea. They regarded things essential to their welfare or beyond human control as "gods" and offered prayers. They believed that without receiving protection and provisions from them, stable living was impossible, so they prayed to the gods to insure a peaceful life. Furthermore, they held rituals of prayer to express in words their gratitude to the gods for granting their wishes.

This display introduces the Ainu people's prayers featuring various ritual implements such as inau, iku-pasui, and wooden bowls, which were used on different occasions, together with their clothes and daily tools.