Universe

Among the various creatures and phenomena that exist around humans, those that play particularly important roles and have a strong influence are called kamuy (spirit-deities). The Ainu believe that kamuy are everywhere and are always watching over humans. Flora, fauna, fire, water, wind, mountains, and rivers are all kamuy that manifest in the human world with gifts such as meat and furs. Iyomante is a ceremony where hospitality is extended to the ramat (spirits) of kamuy before they are sent back to the world from which they came.