Ainu Design Patch

This intricate patch is produced at the Biratori Ainu Crafts and Heritage Center, also known as Urespa (ウレㇱパ, the Ainu word for ‘each other’).

The centre opened in Nibutani, Hokkaido, in April 2019 to promote Ainu heritage crafts to visitors from both Japan and overseas. Urespa offers a variety of Ainu craft items, including nibutani-ita (intricately carved wooden trays) and other newly developed products, to share Ainu culture with visitors.

The patch consists of symmetrical patterns featuring elements that can commonly be found in Ainu heritage motifs, including their distinctive spiral patterns (known as moreunoka).

Individual pieces vary in colour and size as each piece is handmade.

Size: approx. 6cm x 6cm

Hokkaidō

Hokkaidō is the northernmost of Japan's main islands, largely unspoiled, and the least densely populated. It is known for its national parks, numerous world-class ski resorts, delicious seafood and the distinct culture of the indigenous Ainu population. While the summers are comfortably mild, winters are cold. Sapporo, the largest city, is home to the annual Snow Festival.