What is the Sannai Maruyama Site?
The Sannai Maruyama Site (Sannai Maruyama iseki) is one of Japan’s largest Jomon-period settlement sites, located in Aomori City, Aomori Prefecture. It is famous for revealing a large-scale settlement that flourished from about 5,900 to 4,200 years ago.
This site was inscribed in 2021 as part of the “Jomon Archaeological Sites in Hokkaido and Northern Tohoku” on the UNESCO World Heritage List, and it has become an important spot for learning about Japanese history and culture.
The grounds include reconstructed Jomon-era dwellings and raised-floor buildings, and well-equipped facilities where you can experience life from that time.
It’s recommended not only for those interested in archaeology and history, but also for families and tourists!
Features of the Sannai Maruyama Site
1. One of Japan’s largest Jomon sites
The Sannai Maruyama Site covers a vast area—about the size of roughly 9 Tokyo Domes (approximately 42 hectares).
Remains of dwellings, storage pits, burial grounds, and large post holes have been discovered here, showing that Jomon people settled here for long periods.
2. Remains of a massive six‑post building
A symbolic feature of the site is the remains of a building with six huge pillars.
The exact purpose of this building is still unclear, but it is thought it may have been used as a watchtower or a place for rituals and ceremonies.
Today, a reconstruction of the massive building, about 15 meters high, has been restored so visitors can experience its impressive scale.
3. Exhibition facilities to experience Jomon life
The site includes the Sannai Maruyama Site Center, where pottery, stone tools, ornaments and other items excavated from the site are on display.
There is also a photo corner where you can wear Jomon‑era clothing, and hands‑on activities such as fire‑starting and pottery‑making, so you can get a close sense of Jomon daily life.
4. Extensive guided tours
To deepen your understanding of the site, joining a free guided tour is recommended.
Expert guides explain the significance of the excavated remains and details of daily life at the time.
Highlights of the Sannai Maruyama Site
1. Reconstructed Jomon dwellings
On the site you can see reconstructions of pit dwellings and raised‑floor storehouses that are believed to resemble the actual homes.
You can enter some of them to get a realistic sense of how people lived.
2. Large storage pits and dietary evidence
Excavations have uncovered large quantities of chestnuts and walnuts, showing that Jomon people practiced cultivation and storage.
The site is noteworthy as evidence not only of hunting and gathering but also of the beginnings of agriculture.
3. Jomon accessories and art
A variety of ornaments and clay figurines have been excavated, indicating that Jomon people had aesthetic sense and decorative culture.
In particular, the beautiful jade magatama (curved beads) are valuable finds that show advanced crafting techniques of the time.
How to enjoy the Sannai Maruyama Site
1. Jomon experience workshops
Various Jomon experience programs are offered on the site.
- Pottery‑making experience (make Jomon-style pottery using clay)
- Fire‑starting experience (start a fire by rubbing stones)
- Accessory making (make ornaments using shells and stones)
2. Buy Jomon-themed souvenirs at the gift shop
The museum shop at the Sannai Maruyama Site sells souvenirs related to Jomon culture.
Popular items include accessories modeled on Jomon pottery and T‑shirts with Jomon patterns.
3. Try Jomon-inspired food
The on‑site café offers treats made with ingredients eaten during the Jomon period, such as snacks using chestnuts and walnuts and Jomon‑style soups.
Useful information for travelers
Access
By train and bus
- About 30 minutes by bus from Aomori Station (get off at “Sannai Maruyama Site‑mae”)
- About 10 minutes by taxi from Shin‑Aomori Station
By car
- About 30 minutes by car from Aomori Airport
- Parking available (free)
Opening hours & admission
- Hours: 9:00–17:00 (last entry 16:30)
- Closed: 4th Monday of each month (if a national holiday, closed the following day), and New Year’s holidays (Dec 30–Jan 1)
- Admission: Adults: ¥500 / University students, etc.: ¥250 / High school students and younger: free (special exhibitions may charge a fee)
Wi‑Fi
- Free Wi‑Fi is available at the visitor information center and the museum shop
Language support
- Brochures available in English, Chinese, and Korean
- Some guided tours are available in English (advance reservation recommended)
Summary and Frequently Asked Questions
The Sannai Maruyama Site is a valuable historical site where you can experience Japan’s Jomon period.
Walking across the expansive grounds, you can learn about the lives and culture of Jomon people.
With free guided tours and hands‑on programs, it’s a great destination for history enthusiasts as well as families and travelers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much time should I allow?
A: If you want to tour the whole site at a relaxed pace, allow about 2 hours. If you plan to join experience programs, allow about a half‑day.
Q: Any clothing advice?
A: The site is large and involves a lot of walking, so comfortable shoes are recommended.
Q: Are English tours available?
A: English guided tours are available by advance reservation.
When you visit Aomori, be sure to experience the Jomon history at the Sannai Maruyama Site!
