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Japan

Okinohara Site

Middle Jōmon period moated village remains

Time Periods

Paleolithic

Paleolithic

Mesolithic

Mesolithic

Neolithic

Neolithic

Chalcolithic

Chalcolithic

Bronze Age

Bronze Age

Iron Age

Iron Age

Classical Period

Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Early Modern Period

Early Modern Period

Industrial Period

Industrial Period

Contemporary Period

Contemporary Period

About

The Okinohara Site is a significant archaeological site from the Middle Jōmon period, located in Tsunan, Niigata, Japan. The site features the remnants of a large moated village, with evidence of domestic and ceremonial structures. Among the notable finds are 49 circular pit dwellings and three large rectangular structures, potentially used for communal or ceremonial purposes. The discovery of over 1686 pieces of 'flame style' Jōmon pottery and a unique 'Okinohara type' pottery, along with stone tools and organic residues such as 'Jōmon cookies,' highlights the complex cultural practices of the Jōmon people. The presence of chestnuts suggests the cultivation of trees, indicating a shift from purely hunter-gatherer lifestyles. Recognized as a National Historic Site, the artifacts from the excavation are preserved and displayed at the Tsunan Town History and Folklore Museum.

Gallery

Explore photographs of ancient structures, artifacts, and archaeological excavations at Okinohara Site

FileOkinohara-iseki.JPG

Archaeological Features

Explore the unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

Defensive Structures

Moats

Religious and Ritual Structures

Ceremonial Platforms

Agricultural and Land Use Features

Terraces

Domestic and Habitation Structures

HousesPit HousesVillages

Food Production and Processing Features

Hearths

Historical Timeline

Journey through time and discover key events in this site's archaeological history

Plan Your Visit

Details

Country
Japan
Source
Wikipedia