Held annually around mid to late October, Akan Ainu Art Week brings together contemporary creativity and traditional Ainu culture in the natural setting of Hokkaido’s Lake Akan. This multi-week event transforms the Lake Akan Onsen area and the nearby Ainu Kotan village into a vibrant open-air gallery, with works by both Ainu and non-Ainu artists.
Installations, sculptures, textiles, and performances are placed throughout the town and forest, encouraging visitors to explore the area on foot. Many pieces are the result of artist residencies and collaborations with the local community, offering an engaging experience that blends culture, nature, and storytelling.
In addition to the artwork, the festival features Ainu theater performances, guided nature experiences, craft workshops, and short film screenings. The event has gained national attention in recent years, especially after a festival-produced film won the Grand Prize at the Japan International Tourism Film Festival.
Ahead of the main event, a traveling preview tour is also held in various cities around Japan. These pre-events include artist talks, screenings, and special food menus inspired by Ainu culture, offering a taste of what to expect in Hokkaido.
Admission to the event is free, and visitors are encouraged to take their time and enjoy the slower pace of the area while engaging with the works on display.
For the latest updates, please visit the official Akan Ainu Art Week website.
