Enjoy one of two special performances of Ainu dance by the Biratori Ainu Culture Preservation Association in conjunction with Japan House London’s exhibition Ainu Stories: Contemporary Lives by the Saru River.

Ainu dance was added to UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2009 for its role in preserving the continuity of cultural heritage within the community and has a range of social and ceremonial functions. Some dances are associated with certain ceremonies, others provide entertainment for the performers, and some accompany the repetitive motions of manual labour.

The characteristics of Ainu dance differ from region to region with the dances from the Biratori region often referring to the birds found by the banks of the Saru River such as Hararki the crane dance and Anna hore (bird dance).

During each event, guests can enjoy a programme of dances from the Biratori region. The events also feature a short Q&A with one of the performers,Kaizawa Taichi who has been actively engaged in various activities to preserve and promote Ainu culture for future generations.

The exhibition Ainu Stories: Contemporary Lives by the Saru River is on display in the Gallery at Japan House London until 21 April, 2024.

Please note that filming and photography may take place at this event. Photos and footage of the event may then be used to promote Japan House London, helping more people to discover what we offer. If you have any concerns, please email info@japanhouselondon.uk or contact a member of the team on site.

About the Performers

The Biratori Ainu Culture Preservation Association was founded in 1983 and celebrates its 40th anniversary in 2023. Its members carry out a wide range of activities to promote the preservation and transmission of Ainu culture in various fields including dance, food, clothing, housing and the Ainu language. The group is also involved in international exchange activities, and they are working to increase awareness of Ainu culture by performing a range of dances from Biratori, as well as other regions.

All performers are members of the Ainu community in Biratori who help maintain their cultural heritage through skills and knowledge which include food culture, carving, language and dance: Kaizawa Taichi, Nagano Tamaki, Kimura Misaki, Kaizawa Michiru, Shinmachi Seiya (one member of singing duo Ankes), Yamada Tetsuto, Oikawa Naomi, Kano Kazuko, Kudō Sayo and Katō Takuo.

Kaizawa Taichi was born in 1971 in Nibutani, Biratori, Hokkaido, and is of Ainu descent. He grew up surrounded by the rich natural landscape of the Hidaka Mountains and by Ainu culture. Drawing from his 15 years of experience as a researcher of Ainu culture, he is actively engaged in activities aimed at passing on Ainu culture to future generations from various perspectives. These activities include agriculture (his profession) and woodcarving and craft.

Additionally, he serves as the president of the NPO Cikornay National Trust. He is dedicated to fostering an appreciation of the interconnectedness of nature and Ainu culture, and actively works towards preserving Hokkaido’s forests for the future.

Booking Essential | Admission Free