The Worldview of the Ainu, by Takako Yamada

The Ainu, the indigenous people of Japan, are very distinct from the modern Japanese, but not much has been written about them. Takako Yamada examines the Ainu culture, specifically looking at the mythology of the Ainu and their nomenclature for plants and animals, as well as comparing them to the Japanese and similar Siberian people groups. This anthropological study seeks an examination of their worldview, not to describe it from the standpoint of another culture.

This book is especially valuable for people seeking to learn specifically about the Ainu culture, or who plan to visit or do cultural exchanges with Hokkaido, where most modern Ainu live. It is also valuable for those who wish to learn of the cultural diversity in Japan.