Satohama shell mound
里浜貝塚 | |
shell midden | |
Length | 800 meters |
---|---|
Width | 200 meters |
History | |
Periods | Jōmon period |
Site notes | |
Public access | Yes |
The Satohama Shell Midden (里浜貝塚) is an
Overview
During the early to middle Jōmon period (approximately 4000 to 2500 BC), sea levels were five to six meters higher than at present, and the ambient temperature was also 2 deg C higher. During this period, the Tōhoku region was inhabited by the
Most of these middens are found along the
Located on Miyatojima, the largest island in Matsushima Bay, the midden is on a hill extending from east to west, extending 200 meters north-south and 800 meters east-west. It was first excavated by
In addition to vast numbers of shells, the mound included chestnuts, acorns, the bones of large oceanic fish, and the bones of deer, wild boar and numerous species of birds. More than sixty examples of human remains were also found. In addition, there are many examples of fishing gear and ornaments, some made from conch and other materials not native to the area, presuming some form of long distance trade, as well as polished stone axes. In total were 293 manufactured items of bone, 91 of shell, 168 of stone, and 38 of earthenware found during excavations which
Adjacent to the archeological site is the Okumatsushima Jōmon Village, where most of the excavated items can be seen in the historical museum located inside. It is located about 15 minutes by car from
See also
References
- ^ 里浜貝塚. Cultural Heritage Online (in Japanese). Agency for Cultural Affairs. Retrieved 25 December 2016.
- ^ "里浜貝塚出土品". Miyagi Prefecture. Retrieved 25 March 2011.
- ^ "Database of Registered National Cultural Properties". Agency for Cultural Affairs. Retrieved 25 March 2011.
- ^ "The Historical Museum of Jomon Village OkuMatsushima". The Historical Museum of Jomon Village OkuMatsushima. Retrieved 27 March 2011.
External links
- Agency for Cultural Affairs site (in Japanese)
- Miyagi Prefecture official site (in Japanese)
- Historical Museum of Jomon Village OkuMatsushima homepage (in Japanese)
- Satohama shell mound booklet