The National Museum of Ethnology (Minpaku) is a research center for ethnology and cultural anthropology.

Necklace of Ainu beads

  • HI 5592
  • Hokkaido
Necklace of Aynu beads

Necklaces made by combining beautiful beads were indispensable for formal dressing of Aynu women, and these beaded necklaces were considered one of their most valuable assets. The glass beads were acquired through trade with the neighboring continent, and were used in the manufacture of necklaces of special Aynu designs, by Aynu women. In later periods, beads from Honshu (Japan’s main island) were also used. The Hokkaido Aynu apparently preferred larger beads, and some of the necklaces on display weigh several kilograms.

Feathered robe | Attus robe | Nettle robe | Robe made of fish skin | Robe with stitched cloths |
Traditional Aynu house | Altar (nusasan) | Necklace of Aynu beads | Women’s knife | Wooden tray
Aynu (Aynu) Mosir
New Aynu Law
Related links:
　Special Exhibition “A Message from the Aynu: Craft and Spirit” (January 8 - February 15, 2004)
　Special Exhibition “The Sea Otter and Glass Beads: Trade of Indigenous Peoples of the North Pacific Rim” (September 20, 2001 - January 15, 2002)