Jomon Prehistoric Sites in Northern Japan

By Brandon

What is Jomon Prehistoric Sites in Northern Japan?

The Jomon Prehistoric Sites are a collection of 17 archaeological sites in northern Japan. They are areas of Jomon culture that date back over 10,000 years. The Jomon people were natives to Japan who were somewhat sedentary, even though they were pre-agricultural. Rather, they were a hunter-fisher-gatherer culture with large and complex societies. Archaeological finds at the Jomon sites include pottery, hunting tools, and ritualistic objects.

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Why are the Jomon Prehistoric Sites a UNESCO World Heritage site?

The Jomon Prehistoric Sites were added to the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2021 because of the significance of the archaeological finds including Jomon pottery, evidence of spiritual practices, and architecture. The architecture and shelters were primarily pit dwellings but there were wooden structures too: even massive sized structures that provide evidence of communal living and a semi-sedentary lifestyle. According to UNESCO, the sites bear “exceptional testimony to a globally rare prehistoric sedentary hunter-fisher-gatherer society which nurtured a complex spiritual culture.”

The sites are “an outstanding example of sedentary modes of settlement and land-use from the emergence of sedentism through its subsequent development and ultimate maturity.” In other words, the Jomon people adapted to climate change and to different conditions in different locations.

What can you expect on a visit to Jomon Prehistoric Sites in Northern Japan?

There are a total of 17 archaeological sites that make up this serial property. All 17 are different in terms of archaeological evidence, size, and access to visitors. Some of the more popular sites include Sannai-Maruyama, Oyu Stone Circles, Kakinoshima, Goshono, and Kitakogane.

I visited half the sites in Aomori, Akita, and Iwate Prefecture and some sites are large enough where you can spend hours, but other sites are a few stone circles and visitors only need but a few minutes to visit. The two main sites that are a must-visit are Sannai-Maruyama and Goshono Archaeological Site.

Each of these two sites has a visitor center, museum, and access to the archaeological sites on the grounds. When visiting the grounds, you can see replicas of what the pit dwellings looked like based on archaeological evidence and visitors can even walk inside the replica pit dwellings. Sannai-Maruyama has a large gathering hall and wooden structure that are not present at other locations.

Are these archeological sites worth visiting?

The Jomon sites are well worth a visit if traveling to northern Japan. Out of the 17 sites, only a handful of them are really worth your time while other sites are not worth going out of the way for. Sannai Maruyama and Goshono Archaeological Site are a must. For the larger sites, one to three hours is enough, especially if accessing the museums. For some of the smaller sites that are not closely monitored, just a few minutes is enough time to see the sites and read the information boards.

What sorts of travelers would like the Jomon sites?

Visiting the Jomon sites in Northern Japan would be interesting to those who have a passion for Japanese history or for those who enjoy learning about hunter-gatherer societies and what life was like thousands of years ago. Today, these sites are found in natural areas far from any major city. You have to appreciate nature and being outdoors to fully enjoy the Jomon Prehistoric Sites.

Tips for visiting Jomon Prehistoric Sites

Northern Japan is sparse and public transportation is not as prevalent as in other places in Japan. In order to see a few of the Jomon Prehistoric Sites, a rental car is a must or some type of tour.

Compare rental car prices here.

This full-day tour includes three of the archeological sites and several other stops as well. This half-day tour from Aomori includes two of the sites.

Use the advice on the Jomon sites’ official website if you want to visit using public transportation.

Since the sites are primarily outdoors, the walking paths can be uneven, although they are well maintained. Some of the sites charge an entrance fee and have opening hours while others are free and open 24/7. It’s always best to check the official website.

Where are the Jomon Prehistoric Sites in Northern Japan?

The Jomon sites are scattered throughout northern Japan in Aomori, Akita, Iwate, and Hokkaido Prefectures. See the map of Japan’s UNESCO sites.

• Sannai Maruyama is the most accessible site because it is right outside of the city of Aomori. From the city center it is a 10-15-minute drive, while public transportation can take 30 minutes or more.
• Goshono Archaeological Site is more remote and is located in the small town of Ichinohe. From Ichinohe city center it is less then a 10-minute drive and a 30-minute journey with public transportation.

Find accommodations in Aomori or Ichinohe.

For more information about the Jomon Prehistoric Sites, their opening hours and admission fees, see their official website.

Have you been to any of the Jomon sites? If so, do you have any additional information or advice about this UNESCO World Heritage site? Please add your comments below!