Chino City Togariishi Jomon Archaeological Museum

Overview

The Chino City Togariishi Jomon Archaeological Museum, located in Chino City, Nagano Prefecture, showcases precious artifacts unearthed from the Togariishi and Yosukeone Ridge sites – Jomon period settlement ruins. Situated on a plateau at an elevation of approximately 1000 meters in the western foothills of the Yatsugatake Mountains, this site spans approximately 170 meters east-west and 90 meters north-south. Excavations have revealed numerous pit dwellings and hearths dating back to the middle Jomon period (approximately 5000 years ago), shedding light on the lives of the people who lived there. The museum displays about 3000 artifacts unearthed from these sites, including earthenware, stone tools, bone and antler tools, and clay products. The highlights are undoubtedly the nationally-treasured dogū (clay figurines), the "Venus of Jomon" and the "Goddess with a Mask." The "Venus of Jomon" is characterized by its curvaceous physique and abstract facial features, representing a quintessential example of Jomon aesthetics. The "Goddess with a Mask" is a striking dogū with a mask-like face and distinctive hairstyle, believed to have had a ritualistic function. These dogū, along with other exhibits, offer insights into Jomon daily life, beliefs, art, and the natural environment of the time. The museum also hosts events and workshops where visitors can experience Jomon-era life. Adjacent to the museum lies the Togariishi Historical Park, showcasing a model of the settlement and explanatory panels. Visiting both the museum and the park provides a deeper understanding of Jomon life. The Chino City Togariishi Jomon Archaeological Museum is a fantastic place to learn about and appreciate the Jomon period. Come and experience the romance of ancient times!