ABSTRACT
There is large seasonal variation in Hokkaido’s natural environment at high latitude and the region’s indigenous hunter–gatherer group, the Ainu, have developed highly adaptive strategies in technology and practical knowledge to cope with this variation and secure resources. In particular, the Ainu developed a calendar and orientation system that were based on the observation of natural phenomena, including astronomical factors, and these were important for survival in this severe environment. In addition, the Ainu have never been an isolated people and their star lore was influenced not only by Japanese traditions but also from Siberian and Arctic traditions. In this chapter, I will provide an overview of the indigenous cosmology of the Ainu and their rich tradition of star lore, as well as discuss the regional variation of vernacular names. Concerning research on Ainu star lore, Sueoka Tomio has provided a monumental contribution and this chapter largely based on his work.
