Ainu herbs: Finding Ainu’s knowledge in our culture and cuisine in Sapporo

After everyone is gathered, conducting a quick briefing (10 minutes) and then transfer by private car to Ainu Culture Promotion Center (Sapporo Pirka Kotan).
*The through guide will explain the itinerary and precautions.

(Time required: 1 hour)
*Sapporo Pirikakotan means “beautiful village of Sapporo” in Ainu language.
Visitors can enjoy learning about the life, history and culture of the Ainu people, who have nurtured a unique culture.
In addition, plants related to the Ainu people are planted in a natural state in the outdoor exhibition and nature village.
*The through guides will be on hand to provide guidance.

(Time required: 2.5 hours)
You will learn how the Ainu people used wild herbs in their diet and how we can incorporate them into our current diet,
In addition to Ainu herbs, we will also contribute to the local economy by using locally grown ingredients.
In addition to Ainu-related plants, we will use ingredients from Sapporo (or Hokkaido, depending on the season) in all dishes to show participants the charm of Sapporo and Hokkaido as a “treasure house of ingredients”.

(Time required: 1.5 hours)
Among the many plants at the Botanic Garden, Hokkaido University, the second oldest botanical garden in Japan, we will pick up plants used by the Ainu and other northern peoples, and an herbalist will explain about them, focusing on food scenes.
The exhibition will also include anecdotes about the Ainu people and how the plants have been used, which can be enjoyed even by those without specialized knowledge.
The tour will also provide an opportunity for participants to learn about the Ainu people’s life and how plants and us are part of the richness of nature.