Memorial Site

Establishment of the Upopoy Memorial Site

The remains of Ainu people and the items buried with them have long been studied by anthropologists and other researchers.

Research into the origins of the people of the Japanese archipelago increased markedly during the middle of the Meiji Era. The remains of Ainu people were excavated and collected by researchers as part of this work, which continued into the Showa era.
As a result, Ainu remains were stored as research materials in several universities. In some instances, the wishes of the Ainu may not have been considered when these remains were excavated and collected.

In light of this history and actions that have been taken to repatriate the remains of indigenous peoples across the world, it was decided in June 2014 that the Japanese government would promote the return of the remains of Ainu people to the Ainu with the understanding and cooperation of relevant parties. It was also decided at the time that the remains that could not be returned immediately would be transferred to Upopoy, where dignified memorial services would be held by the Ainu and the remains would be managed properly until a system for their acceptance by the Ainu could be established.

In accordance with this decision, the Upopoy Memorial Site was established to fulfill this function in September 2019.

The transfer of remains from universities began in November of the same year, and the first memorial service performed by Ainu people was held in December.

Fostering an understanding of this history among the many visitors to Upopoy is fundamental to a harmonious society now and in the future.