Housing

             In the Ainu language, a village is referred to as "kotan." Historically, kotans were strategically situated in river basins and coastal regions, places where food sources, especially salmon, were abundant. However, in later periods, the Ainu found themselves compelled to labor in Japanese fishing territories. Consequently, the Ainu kotans were relocated near these fishing zones to ensure a steady workforce for the Japanese. As the Japanese shifted their fishing operations, the Ainu were often uprooted to move alongside them. This resulted in the dissolution of many traditional kotans, with newer, larger villages centered around fishing areas, often comprising numerous households.

             The individual dwellings within the kotan, known as "chise," were constructed from materials like kogon grass, bamboo, and bark. These houses were elongated in design, either oriented from east to west or aligned parallel to a river. Typically measuring around 7 meters by 5 meters, each house featured an entrance on the west end that also served as a storeroom. There were three windows in the house, one of which, called the 'Lorung Puyal' window, was located on the eastern side, opposite the entrance. This window held a sacred significance; it was believed to be the portal through which deities entered and exited and was also used for handling ritualistic tools. Out of respect for its spiritual importance, Ainu were often advised not to peer through this window.

             Inside the house, a fireplace was situated near the front door. Customarily, the couple of the house sat on the left side of this fireplace, an area known as "Shiso." Meanwhile, children and guests occupied the space opposite, on the right side of the hearth, called "harukiso." Further inside, a table named "Iyokiru" was placed to store prized possessions. Items like the Shintoko (hokai) and Ikayop (quiver) were often kept there by the Ainu.