Guida
The Sannai Maruyama Site is a massive settlement dating from the early to middle Jomon period (approximately 3,900 to 2,200 BCE) located in Aomori Prefecture. Since excavations began in 1992, numerous pit dwellings, large-scale post-hole structures, and various artifacts such as pottery, stone tools, wooden implements, and bone-and-horn products have been discovered. Due to its immense historical value, the site was inscribed as part of the "Jomon Prehistoric Sites in the Northern Japan Region" as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2021. The facility includes the 'Jomon Jiyukan' museum, which provides an excellent environment to observe the structure of the ruins and detailed exhibits of excavated items.
This site played a crucial role as a major settlement during the Jomon period. Aomori Prefecture recognized the site's significance early on, deciding to preserve it in 1994. It was designated as a historical site in 1997, a Special Historic Site in 2000, and its 1,958 excavated items were designated as Important Cultural Properties in 2003. It serves as a vital hub for understanding the 'mura' (settlement) form of the Jomon era, providing evidence of how ancient people interacted with the natural environment and organized their daily lives.
The site features various structures that demonstrate the architectural techniques and lifestyles of the era. A standout feature is the "Large-scale Post-hole Building Site," which features pillar holes approximately 2 meters in diameter, showcasing the impressive scale of ancient construction. You can also observe the "Pit Dwelling Sites," where floors were excavated into the ground and central hearths were placed. Other significant areas include the "South Mounded Area," where large quantities of pottery, stone tools, and jade ornaments were found, and the "Valley" area, which preserved wooden products and plant seeds. The Jomon Jiyukan museum allows visitors to experience these cultures in detail through reconstructed buildings and high-quality exhibits.
The site is open for viewing throughout the year, allowing you to observe the layout of the settlement and the structure of the buildings amidst changing seasonal landscapes. Standard opening hours are from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. However, from June 1st to September 30th, the closing time is extended to 6:00 PM. The same extended hours apply during the Golden Week holidays. As much of the site is outdoors, please prepare for seasonal temperature changes when walking through the ruins.
At the Jomon Jiyukan, you can connect with Jomon culture through immersive displays. The reconstructed large dwellings and post-hole structures provide a visual understanding of the ancient living environment. Visitors can also follow designated paths, such as the "Yu-yu Sannai Maruyama Course," which leads from the Jiyukan tunnel through the South Mounded Area to the reconstructed buildings, allowing for a step-by-step exploration of the site's structure.
The site includes a picnic area where visitors are permitted to eat and relax. The vast grounds are designed as a cohesive historical space, with various points of interest including archaeological-style displays, Important Cultural Properties, and reconstructed historical buildings scattered throughout the area.
As much of the site involves walking through outdoor archaeological areas, we highly recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. The entire premises is non-smoking, and eating or drinking is only permitted in the designated picnic area. Admission fees can be paid via cash or credit card (please check the official website for the latest payment methods). For specific details regarding exhibits and facility usage, please refer to the local signage or ask the staff on-site.