Memoir (2) by Professor Joe Watkins, University of Arizona, USA
After a two-year hiatus because of the global coronavirus pandemic, I was able to get back to Sapporo and Hokkaido. I accompanied students of Hokkaido University’s 2022 Summer Institute as they visited museums, archaeological sites, and Ainu communities across eastern Hokkaido. The students were introduced to the wide variety of archaeological and historical manifestations of Ainu culture as they toured museums and investigated how the Ainu are represented in various ways; they tramped around archaeological sites to get better perspectives on ancient Jomon natural and cultural landscapes; and they met with Ainu individuals who continue to carry their traditions on into contemporary society. I had been to many/most of the places before, but it was reassuring to know that they are as lovely and lively as I had remembered them to be. I was glad to make new acquaintances and to renew acquaintances made during previous visits.