The Jomon Archaeological Sites in Hokkaido and Northern Tohoku were inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2021. They represent a rare example of a sedentary hunter-gatherer society that flourished for more than 10,000 years. For the Japanese, these sites are a source of national pride and cultural identity, while for foreigners, they offer a new perspective on Japan beyond samurai, temples, and shrines.
What Are the Jomon Archaeological Sites?
The Jomon Archaeological Sites in Hokkaido and Northern Tohoku consist of 17 archaeological sites located across Hokkaido, Aomori, Iwate, and Akita prefectures. These sites reflect the lifestyle of the Jomon period, which lasted from about 15,000 years ago to 2,400 years ago. Unlike many hunter-gatherer societies that were nomadic, the Jomon people chose a settled lifestyle, building a sustainable society based on coexistence with nature.
The reason UNESCO inscribed the sites on the World Heritage List in 2021 was that this form of sedentary hunter-gatherer society is extremely rare in human history. In addition, clay figurines (dogu) used in rituals and pottery decorated with intricate patterns reveal the richness of spiritual culture that transcended mere practicality. These remains are not just ancient artifacts but cultural messages that continue to communicate the values and beliefs of the Jomon people.
Representative Jomon Sites
| Site | Location | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Sannai Maruyama | Aomori | Large settlement, pit dwellings, large pillar buildings |
| Oyu Stone Circles | Akita | Megalithic ritual sites arranged in circles |
| Irie and Takasago Shell Mounds | Hokkaido | Evidence of fishing culture, layers of fish bones and shells |
| Futatsumori Shell Mound | Aomori | Large shell mound showing dietary practices |
Taken together, these sites demonstrate that the Jomon period was not simply primitive, but an age with highly developed spirituality and social structure.
The Meaning of Jomon Culture for the Japanese
For the Japanese, Jomon culture symbolizes their worldview of nature and spirituality. The Jomon people utilized the blessings of forests and the sea while avoiding overexploitation, living in a balanced coexistence with the natural world. This lifestyle is seen as a model for addressing today’s environmental challenges.
Numerous clay figurines and pottery pieces were created during the Jomon period. Among them, the famous Shakoki Dogu (goggle-eyed figurine) has an otherworldly design and symbolizes ancient prayers and beliefs. Most Japanese people first encounter Jomon culture in school, where it is taught as the opening chapter of national history. For this reason, Jomon culture forms a foundation of cultural identity.
The Value of Jomon Culture for Japanese People
| Aspect | Content |
|---|---|
| View of Nature | The idea of coexistence with nature |
| Spirituality | Prayers and beliefs expressed in figurines and rituals |
| Artistic Value | Decorative pottery of striking beauty |
| Education | Taught as the “origin of Japanese culture” in schools |
| Local Communities | Preservation activities and cultural festivals |
In this way, Jomon culture is not just historical knowledge but a spiritual support for modern Japanese people.
Japanese Evaluation and Social Impact
The World Heritage inscription in 2021 had a profound impact on Japanese society. Media coverage was extensive, and citizens nationwide reacknowledged the value of their own culture. Tourism increased significantly, revitalizing regional economies. Museums and guided tours were developed, turning local history into a resource for tourism.
The sites have also become more important in education. Students now have more opportunities to learn about Jomon culture, nurturing an awareness of “cherishing one’s own culture”.
Major Changes After World Heritage Inscription
| Field | Change |
|---|---|
| Tourism | Growth of domestic and international visitors, regional economic revitalization |
| Education | Stronger use in school curricula, greater student interest |
| Cultural Preservation | Stronger preservation movements by local residents |
| International Recognition | Japan’s cultural diversity acknowledged worldwide |
At the same time, balancing preservation with tourism development is a challenge. Excessive commercialization could damage the sites, so an approach of “protecting while utilizing” is essential.
How Foreigners Perceive Japanese Evaluation of Jomon Sites
For foreigners, the Jomon Archaeological Sites are a new gateway to understanding Japanese culture. Unlike the widely recognized traditions of tea ceremony, kabuki, or bushido, Jomon culture is much older and impresses visitors as a culture of human coexistence with nature.
The artistic beauty of Jomon pottery and dogu figurines is especially striking. Many foreigners describe them as “mystical” or “like modern art,” highlighting a uniqueness distinct from Western ancient cultures.
The Jomon emphasis on sustainable living resonates strongly today, when environmental issues are global concerns. Many foreign visitors also praise how the Japanese take pride in preserving their heritage.
Common Impressions of Foreign Visitors
| Evaluation Point | Foreign Voices |
|---|---|
| Artistic Value | “The dogu look like modern art masterpieces.” |
| Spirituality | “I could feel their respect for nature and spirits.” |
| Environmental Relevance | “This is a model of sustainable living.” |
| Japanese Attitude | “I was impressed by their pride in preservation.” |
Through these impressions, foreigners perceive the sites as evidence of Japan’s cultural maturity.
Comparison: Japanese vs. Foreign Evaluation of Jomon Sites
| Aspect | Japanese Evaluation | Foreign Perspective |
|---|---|---|
| Historical Value | Proof of Japan’s origins | Valuable part of human history |
| Cultural Value | Symbol of spirituality and coexistence with nature | Symbol of sustainability and eco-culture |
| Social Impact | Education and tourism boosting local communities | New entry point for understanding Japan |
| Emotional Response | Strengthened pride and identity | Mystical and unique experience |
Lessons for Modern Society from Jomon Culture
Jomon culture offers lessons that extend beyond the past. In an age where climate change and resource scarcity threaten societies, the Jomon way of living in harmony with nature provides a guiding model.
The artistic expression seen in pottery and figurines shows a worldview that valued emotional and spiritual richness, not just convenience or efficiency. This perspective is highly relevant today, reminding us that material progress should not come at the cost of deeper human values.
For the Japanese, evaluating the Jomon sites means not only appreciating history but also emphasizing the responsibility of passing on their cultural essence to the future. For foreigners, these sites present a model of sustainable culture that humanity as a whole can learn from.
Conclusion
The Jomon Archaeological Sites in Hokkaido and Northern Tohoku are a source of cultural pride for Japanese people and a new gateway for foreigners to discover another dimension of Japan. Their value is not limited to the past; it also provides insights for the future.
As Japan continues to preserve and share this heritage, the sites will become not only a center for tourism and international exchange but also a global cultural asset that all of humanity should learn from.
