The exhibition Ainu Stories: Contemporary Lives by the Saru River, which attracted over 160,000 visitors during its time at Japan House London, is now set to continue its journey in Lithuania. After receiving interest from curators at the National Museum of Lithuania, elements of the exhibition will be featured in a new showcase titled A Soul Between Worlds, running from February 5 to August 2, 2026, at the House of Histories in Vilnius.
Originally displayed in London during 2023-2024, the exhibition highlighted the rich culture of the Ainu people, particularly those from Biratori, located in the Saru River basin in southern Hokkaido. It explored the profound connections between the Ainu community and their environment, while also uncovering historical ties between the United Kingdom and Biratori.
Collaboration and Cultural Exchange
In Vilnius, elements of the Ainu Stories exhibition will be paired with works from Bronisław Piłsudski (1866-1918), a significant figure in the study of Ainu history. This collaboration commemorates the 160th anniversary of Piłsudski’s birth and will showcase his contributions alongside artifacts that illustrate Ainu culture and history. The display aims to provide visitors with insights into contemporary Ainu identity and heritage.
Significant materials from the London exhibition will be lent to the House of Histories, including specially commissioned woodwork and video footage captured during the exhibition in Biratori. Additionally, the exhibition will feature unique Ainu-themed tourism objects, such as a Coca-Cola bottle designed by Ainu artists and carved wooden bears from the personal collection of Simon Wright, Director of Programming at Japan House London.
Engagement and Discussion
Wright expressed enthusiasm about the ongoing celebration of Ainu culture across Europe, noting, “Ainu Stories was a landmark exhibition for Japan House London, telling important stories from an indigenous Ainu community and how the people there live today. We are thrilled that significant elements of our exhibition are travelling to be displayed in Lithuania and then, later in the year, in Poland, so that more audiences can hear the voices of Ainu communities first-hand.”
To further engage with the public, Wright will participate in a panel discussion at the National Museum of Lithuania on the opening day. This event will include the exhibition’s curator and academics specializing in Piłsudski’s work, fostering dialogue about the cultural and historical significance of the Ainu people.
The exhibition A Soul Between Worlds: Indigenous Ainu in Northern Japan and Ethnographer Bronisław Piłsudski opens on February 5, 2026, inviting audiences to explore the intersection of Ainu heritage and ethnographic study. For those unable to visit, Japan House London offers a virtual tour of the original exhibition, providing a platform for global audiences to appreciate Ainu culture.
Japan House London, located on Kensington High Street, serves as a cultural hub, showcasing the best of Japanese art, design, and innovation. It is part of a global initiative that includes other locations in Los Angeles and São Paulo, aiming to deepen international appreciation for Japanese culture.
