Guide
The Irie-Takasago Shell Midden is an archaeological site featuring a shell midden dating from the late early Jomon period to the mid-late Jomon period (approximately 3,500 BCE to 800 BCE). Designated as a National Historic Site in 1988, it was added to the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2021 as part of the 'Jomon Prehistoric Sites in Northern Japan.' Situated on a plateau 10 to 20 meters above sea level with a view of Uchiura Bay, this site is a crucial archaeological asset that illustrates how ancient people utilized both marine and mountain resources.
This site provides a window into the settlement patterns of the Jomon people. The settlement consists of residential areas with pit dwellings and burial areas with pit graves. The excavated artifacts reveal advanced technological skills and a complex social structure. For instance, remains of clams and mussels, as well as bones from fish like herring, rockfish, sea bass, and even tuna, alongside bones from deer and dolphins, prove that fishing and hunting were highly developed. Furthermore, the discovery of ornaments made from wild boar tusks and shell bracelets made from large sea snails (which are rare in Hokkaido) suggests active trade and interaction with other regions.
The most striking feature is the exposed layers of the shell midden and the diverse artifacts that tell the story of ancient life. Visitors can see bone tools such as fishhooks and harpoons, providing a tangible sense of technological evolution. Notably, human remains of an adult male suffering from muscular atrophy were discovered in the burial area. This discovery is a significant piece of evidence showing that the Jomon people practiced long-term, dedicated care for individuals with illnesses or disabilities, reflecting a highly compassionate and organized social structure.
The site is located in an open landscape overlooking Uchiura Bay, offering beautiful scenery that changes with the seasons. On clear days, the view of the bay provides a perfect backdrop to imagine the ancient landscape. At the 'Irie-Takasago Shell Midden Museum,' visitors can deepen their understanding of how the environment and resource utilization changed throughout the seasons through various exhibits.
At the Irie-Takasago Shell Midden Museum, you can learn about the daily life of the Jomon period through the display of actual artifacts, such as the intricate boar tusk ornaments. The facility also features displays where you can observe the shell layers up close, allowing you to understand the archaeological structure from a professional perspective.
Nestled within the beautiful natural environment of Toyako Town, the site offers a wonderful way to experience Hokkaido's nature. After exploring the history, we recommend a route that enjoys the scenic views of Uchiura Bay. Since there are many sightseeing spots around Lake Toya, you can easily plan a trip that combines historical exploration with natural beauty.
The site is located in a natural, elevated environment. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. Please follow all rules to protect the exhibits and the site.