TRAVERSE - Journal of Language and Applied Linguistics
Vol. 7 No. 2 (2026): Journal of Language and Applied Linguistics July 2026 (ON GOING)

Meaning of Yukie Chiri & Ainu's Manga Cultural Vocabulary as an Entrance to Japanese Ainu Cross-Cultural Understanding

Ida Ayu Laksmita Sari (Universitas Udayana, Bali, Indonesia)
Ni Luh Kade Yuliani Giri (Universitas Udayana, Bali, Indonesia)



Article Info

Publish Date
22 Jul 2026

Abstract

This study examined the cultural vocabulary contained in Yukie Chiri & Ainu's manga (comic) (2017). Yukie Chiri & Ainu manga is a comic that tells the journey of a girl named Yukie Chiri in collecting Ainu folklore. Using ethnographic semantic theory, this study focused on the identification, categorization, and meaning of the Ainu cultural system through vocabulary related to cultural elements used in the Yukie Chiri & Ainu manga. The study results show several cultural vocabularies used to introduce Japanese Ainu culture, namely the vocabulary of belief systems, types of rituals, ritual means, place names, seasons, and living equipment of the Ainu people. This study contributes to the understanding that this manga not only introduces narratives and forms of folklore such as yukar as cultural heritage but also confirms that this manga also introduces Ainu cultural vocabulary which is the entry point for readers for cross-cultural introductions.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

traverse

Publisher

Subject

Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media Social Sciences

Description

Journal of Language and Applied Linguistics (TRAVERSE) is a journal aims to be a peer-reviewed platform and an authoritative source of information. We publish original research papers, review articles and case studies focused on language teaching, learning and applied linguistics context. The scope ...