🗺️ Akan Lake Ainu Village

Lake Akan is the fifth largest freshwater lake in Hokkaido and a representative tourist attraction in eastern Hokkaido. Located on the southern side of Lake Akan, Akan Ainu Village is a settlement that gathers facilities and shops that convey Ainu culture (Kotan). This village originated from Mitsuko Maeda, the third-generation owner of Maeda Ippoen, who was revered by the Ainu people as the "Mother of Akan" for her dedication to protecting the Ainu way of life by generously lending her private land. As Ainu people from various parts of Hokkaido migrated here, the village gradually developed into what it is today. The number "6" holds significant meaning in Ainu culture, representing "many." In Akan Ainu Village, the "6" major spirits of communication, craftsmanship, cuisine, inheritance, liberation, and coexistence with nature are showcased. The area, designed to educate visitors about Ainu history and culture, features shops selling folk crafts and dining establishments, as well as a dedicated indoor theater for Ainu culture, a museum, and a gallery housing various crafts, attracting many domestic and international tourists. Within the facilities, visitors can engage in craft experiences and guided activities that provide insights into the Ainu way of life and wisdom. Additionally, the dining establishments offer Ainu cuisine, allowing guests to deeply appreciate the unique Ainu charm of the region.

Located on the southern side of Lake Akan, this village gathers facilities and shops that convey Ainu culture. The third-generation owner of Maeda Ichibuen, Maeda Mitsuko, generously lent her private land, which led to the development of the current village as the Ainu people migrated here. It includes various shops and facilities such as folk craft stores and dining establishments. Visitors can learn about the lifestyle and wisdom of the Ainu people through craft experiences and guided tours.