The Ainu people have inhabited the northern islands of Japan, including Hokkaido, for at least 13,000 years. Archaeological evidence suggests that the Ainu were already present in Hokkaido during the late Pleistocene era. Genetic studies have also revealed a close genetic relationship between the Ainu and the indigenous peoples of Siberia and Northeast Asia. Throughout their history, the Ainu have maintained a distinct culture, language, and way of life, separate from the majority Yamato Japanese population.