Ancient Japan Comes to Life at Aomori’s Sannai-Maruyama Site

Want to explore a side of Japan that goes beyond temples and samurai? The Sannai-Maruyama Site in Aomori offers a rare look at how the Jomon people lived over 5,000 years ago, when daily life centered on hunting and gathering. Just a 30-minute drive from Aomori Airport, with shuttle buses from the nearest station, the site is easy to reach. As a key part of the UNESCO-listed Jomon Prehistoric Sites in Northern Japan, the spacious grounds recreate an ancient settlement in impressive detail. From excavated artifacts and hands-on craft experiences to modern dishes made with ingredients believed to have been eaten during the Jomon period, this is a place where Japan’s earliest culture feels surprisingly close.

Walk Through a Jomon Village with AR Experiences
Discover Jomon Art and Artifacts at the Museum
Experience Jomon Culture Through Hands-On Workshops
Ancient Ingredients, Modern Flavors

Walk Through a Jomon Village with AR Experiences

The reconstructed Jomon Village lets you step into daily life from around 5,000 years ago. Restored dwellings and open landscapes give a real sense of how people once lived. Using a tablet-based IT guide, you can view AR scenes of the Jomon era and learn about archaeological discoveries along the way. The guide supports six languages, so international visitors can explore with ease. Take your time walking through the village and get a closer look at this ancient world.

Discover Jomon Art and Artifacts at the Museum

To dive deeper, visit the Sanmaru Museum. It features rare excavated items, including nationally designated Important Cultural Properties such as clay figurines, jade accessories, and small bag-shaped artifacts from the Jomon period. With videos and clear explanation panels, the museum introduces Jomon life, beliefs, and artistic sense in an easy-to-follow way. You may be surprised by how creative and expressive these ancient people were.

Experience Jomon Culture Through Hands-On Workshops

As a memorable part of your trip through northern Japan, try your hand at Jomon-era crafts. In these workshops, you can make colorful braided cords (kumihimo) or create a cute mini clay figurine inspired by Jomon artifacts. Sessions last about 30–50 minutes, and friendly volunteer staff provide clear, easy-to-follow guidance. Your finished piece makes a one-of-a-kind Jomon-themed souvenir to take home.

Ancient Ingredients, Modern Flavors

After exploring the site, stop by the on-site restaurant to enjoy modern dishes made with ingredients believed to have been eaten during the Jomon period. A popular favorite is chestnut soft-serve ice cream, inspired by chestnuts eaten during the Jomon period. Other menu items feature wild plants and Aomori scallops, offering gentle flavors that reflect the natural richness of the Tohoku region.