Yukuepira Chashi

Yukuepira Chashi, located in Rikubetsu, Hokkaidō, Japan, is an archaeological site of significant historical importance. It was once home to one of the largest Ainu chashi, or forts, on the island. The name Yukuepira, derived from the Ainu language, translates to 'deer-eating cliff,' reflecting its strategic position near a cliff and the role of deer in its economy. Archaeological excavations have revealed a large embankment alongside remains of palisades, post holes, and ash layers, indicating its function as a fort. Notably, the site yielded skeletal remains of approximately ten thousand deer, suggesting its involvement in a substantial trade of deer skins during the 15th and 16th centuries CE. Additionally, artefacts from both the Jōmon and Zoku-Jōmon periods have been discovered, highlighting its long history of human activity. These findings provide insight into the Ainu culture and the site's multifaceted role in regional trade and defense.