#Lithuania #Vilnius #Japan House #Ainu Culture

Ainu Stories Exhibition Moves to Lithuania

The Ainu Stories exhibition, which has captivated audiences at Japan House London, is set to embark on an exciting new journey to Lithuania. Over 160,000 visitors explored this exhibition during its time in London, which showcased the vital culture and contemporary lives of the Ainu people living by the Saru River in Hokkaido, Japan. Now, elements of this significant exhibition will be featured in the upcoming event A Soul Between Worlds at the House of Histories in Vilnius, running from February 5 to August 2, 2026.

The Ainu community and the curators of the National Museum of Lithuania collaborated closely to bring elements of this exhibition to life. As part of the showcase, visitors will have the opportunity to learn about Ainu traditions, stories, and their relationships with the natural environment that plays such a crucial role in their lives. The exhibition not only highlights Ainu culture but also references historical connections between the UK and the Ainu people.

A key aspect of the exhibition in Vilnius is its partnership with the works of Bronisław Piłsudski, a renowned ethnographer who dedicated his life to the study of the Ainu. 2026 marks the 160th anniversary of Piłsudski's birth, and this exhibition serves as a tribute to his significant impact on understanding the Ainu, especially those on Sakhalin Island.

Among the materials that Japan House London will provide are specially commissioned woodworks and a selection of video footage captured in Biratori, showcasing the day-to-day experiences and vibrant culture of the Ainu people. Moreover, attendees can expect to see unique Ainu-designed items, including a Coca-Cola bottle and intricately carved wooden bears, which are part of the personal collection of Simon Wright, the Director of Programming at Japan House London.

Simon Wright expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming exhibition, noting how Ainu culture continues to be celebrated across Europe. He emphasized the importance of sharing Ainu narratives globally and is excited to see these vital stories resonate with new audiences in Lithuania and beyond.

As part of this venture, Wright will participate in a panel discussion at the National Museum of Lithuania on February 5, 2026, where he will be joined by the exhibition's curator and specialists in Bronisław Piłsudski's work. This event will provide deeper insights into the Ainu culture and discuss how it has evolved over time.

The exhibition A Soul Between Worlds opens on February 5, 2026, and promises to be an enriching experience for attendees, highlighting the lives of Indigenous Ainu in Northern Japan alongside the insights of one of their most significant ethnographers.

Visitors interested in exploring Ainu culture can also experience the Japan House London exhibition virtually, and further resources about the Ainu people can be found online.

About Japan House London

Japan House London serves as a cultural hub that offers visitors an authentic experience of modern Japan, showcasing the best in art, design, gastronomy, and technology. Located on Kensington High Street, it emphasizes the deep appreciation for Japanese culture, contributing to global discussions about heritage and identity.

The exhibition in Vilnius marks just one more step in Japan House London’s ongoing efforts to promote understanding and appreciation for the Ainu culture and its significance today.