Special Historic Site: SannaiMaruyama Site

©Sannai Maruyama Jomon Culture Center Collection

Located in Aomori City, the SannaiMaruyama Site is one of the largest and best-preserved archaeological sites from Japan’s Jomon period, dating back approximately 5,900 to 4,200 years. Designated as a Special Historic Site, it offers a rare chance to step into the daily lives of ancient people. As you walk through the wide open grounds, you’ll find reconstructed pit dwellings and massive wooden structures that transport you to a distant past.

©Sannai Maruyama Jomon Culture Center Collection/Photographed by Yoshimichi Tanaka

Monumental Architecture from the Jomon Era

One of the most iconic features of the site is the large six-pillar structure, built with chestnut logs over a meter in diameter. Standing beneath these towering wooden columns, it's easy to feel the ingenuity and bold spirit of the people who constructed them thousands of years ago. Nearby, restored pit dwellings give visitors a close look at how the Jomon people lived and used the land around them.

©Sannai Maruyama Jomon Culture Center Collection

Artistry and Everyday Life in Clay and Stone

The excavated artifacts—ranging from elaborately decorated pottery to stone tools and personal ornaments—reveal a culture with a deep appreciation for beauty and craftsmanship. Some items feature intricate patterns or animal motifs, suggesting that even everyday objects were made with artistic intention. These small details offer valuable insight into the aesthetics and values of Japan’s prehistoric people.

Experience Ancient Life Firsthand

SannaiMaruyama isn’t just a place to observe history—it’s a place to experience it. Visitors can try on Jomon-style clothing, create clay figure, or craft accessories inspired by the artifacts unearthed at the site. The museum and exhibition areas also allow for up-close viewing of real relics, providing a meaningful and immersive learning experience for history lovers of all ages.

©Sannai Maruyama Jomon Culture Center Collection

A Must-Visit for Anyone Fascinated by Ancient Cultures

This site is more than a destination—it’s a gateway to understanding the roots of Japanese culture. From its monumental wooden architecture to the delicate expressions found in clay, the Sannai-Maruyama Site brings history to life in a deeply personal way. If you're passionate about archaeology, ancient civilizations, or simply curious about how people lived thousands of years ago, this is a journey worth taking.