Kamo Iwakura Site

Overview & Charm

The Kamo Iwakura Site is a significant archaeological site from the Yayoi period, located in Kamo-cho Iwakura, Unnan City, Shimane Prefecture. It was discovered in 1996 during road construction work. The most striking feature of this site is the discovery of 39 bronze bells (known as 'dotaku'), the largest number found in a single location in Japan. Due to their immense historical value, these bells have been designated as National Treasures. When they were discovered during excavation, the original burial state remained remarkably intact, providing invaluable scientific data regarding the burial methods and ritualistic arrangements used in ancient times.

History & Cultural Background

The discovery began in October 1996 during road construction. Because work was immediately halted upon discovery, the precise arrangement and state of the bells were recorded with high accuracy. The production of these bells spans the middle to late Yayoi period. The collection includes bells made using stone molds (an earlier stage) and clay molds (a later stage), showing technological evolution. Some features also align with sites in the Kinki region, suggesting wide-reaching cultural exchange and the existence of highly skilled workshops. This makes the site a crucial piece of evidence for unraveling the history of the ancient Izumo region.

Key Highlights

The most fascinating aspect of the Kamo Iwakura Site is the 'nested' burial method, where smaller bronze bells were placed inside larger ones. This is an extremely rare find, with very few similar examples outside of Shiga Prefecture. Furthermore, the surfaces of the bells are adorned with exquisite patterns, such as flowing water and 'kesadataki' (diagonal stripe) motifs. Some bells even feature painted depictions of animals and nature, including faces, dragonflies, deer, wild boars, and even sea turtles. These artistic expressions provide deep insights into the natural worldview and ritualistic roles of the people during that era.

Best Times to Visit

The site is surrounded by a rich natural environment. While there are no specific seasonal restrictions, it is best to visit during daylight hours to easily observe the outdoor excavation sites. To fully appreciate the history, we highly recommend visiting the Shimane Prefectural Ancient Izumo History Museum after your visit to the site, as the discovered bronze bells are prominently exhibited there.

Experiences & Activities

At the site, you can observe the actual traces where the bronze bells were once buried, gaining a sense of the ancient ritualistic landscape. By comparing the visual details—such as the 'faces' or 'dragonflies' depicted on the bells—with historical records, you can observe the beauty of ancient Japanese art. Visitors can also deepen their understanding of the technical differences between stone and clay mold production through the various educational displays and literature available.

Surrounding Area

Nearby is the Kaminoya Site, where a large number of bronze swords were discovered. The two sites are located only about 3km apart, and the presence of similar markings (such as the 'X' mark) on the artifacts suggests a close historical connection. Most of the bronze bells from this site are now preserved and displayed at the Shimane Prefectural Ancient Izumo History Museum, making it a perfect follow-up destination to see the National Treasures up close.

Practical Information

• Payment: No payment is required to view the site itself, but cash may be needed for nearby facilities or museums. Credit card availability varies by facility.
• Language Support: English support is limited at the actual excavation site, but the Shimane Prefectural Ancient Izumo History Museum provides English explanations and guidance.
• Reservations: No prior reservation is required to visit the site.
• Clothing & Gear: The area includes unpaved paths and slopes, so comfortable walking shoes and practical clothing are recommended. Hats and water are suggested for sun protection.
• Photography: Photography of the landscape is permitted, but please follow the specific rules for museum exhibits.
• Accessibility: As the site is based on natural terrain, there may be uneven surfaces and steps, which may make wheelchair access difficult.
• Etiquette: This is a National Historic Site. Please stay on the designated paths and respect the site to protect the ancient remains.