Decorative woodcarving plays an important role in the transmission of Ainu artistry from generation to generation in Biratori, and remains a crucial element of the area’s tourist industry.
Nibutani 'ita' are carved wooden plates or trays found mainly in the Nibutani area and once used for serving food. The production of 'ita' has been named an ‘Officially Designated Traditional Craft’, one of only two in Hokkaido. The other is the weaving of Nibutani 'attus', barkcloth textiles.
Learn more about 'Ainu Stories: Contemporary Lives by the Saru River': bit.ly/49VZsCr