Ofune Site (Historical Site)

Overview

The Ofune Site is a Jomon period settlement located in Hakodate, Hokkaido. In 2021, it was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site as part of the "Jomon Prehistoric Sites in Northern Honshu, Japan". This valuable site provides evidence of human habitation from the late Jomon period (approximately 5,200 years ago) to the middle Jomon period (approximately 4,000 years ago). Over 100 pit dwellings, a large-scale earthen mound, and over 100 pit graves have been discovered, offering concrete insights into daily life at that time. The site features a reconstructed "Jomon Forest" depicting the environment of the time, a "Jomon Garden" recreating pit dwellings and earthen mounds, and an administration building displaying panels on Jomon period sites in the Minamimachibu region. These features provide a deeper understanding of Jomon life. Guided tours by volunteers are also available at the administration building. The Ofune Site is a valuable location not only for experiencing Jomon life firsthand but also for learning about the environment and culture of the period. Be sure to visit when you're in Hakodate.