Sugisawadai Site

Overview

The Sugisawadai Site spreads across the Sugisawadai neighborhood of Iwao in Noshiro, Akita Prefecture. It is a multi-period archaeological site where traces of human life from the early Jomon period through the Heian period overlap, preserving the long story of settlement in the Tohoku region. Designated a National Historic Site in 1981, it is known as one of the great Jomon settlements sleeping on the Noshiro plateau.

Highlights

• ●The depth of a multi-period site layered from early Jomon to the Heian period
• ●The solid value of a National Historic Site designated in 1981
• ●The scale of a great Jomon settlement on the Noshiro plateau
• ●A quiet place of learning that lets you feel Tohoku's long settlement history

History

A large settlement was established here in the early Jomon period, and habitation continued intermittently thereafter, leaving layers that reach up to the Heian period and making this a true multi-period site. It was designated a National Historic Site of Japan in 1981 and is preserved as a valuable place that speaks of ancient daily life. For details on excavated artifacts and displays, it is best to check the official information provided by the city of Noshiro.

Map

40.2553, 140.0510 · Wikidata

Suggested itinerary

1. 1Set off from central Noshiro toward the Sugisawadai area of Iwao
2. 2Arrive at the Sugisawadai Site and walk the plateau where the Jomon settlement once stood
3. 3Reflect on ancient life while reading the National Historic Site guidance on hand
4. 4Return to central Noshiro and round off the trip with local heritage exhibits and cuisine

Did you know?

💡 The place name Sugisawadai became the name of the site itself. Noshiro also has a separate mountain called Sugisawa-yama, but this is a Jomon multi-period settlement with layers reaching the Heian era, an entirely different spot.

Nearby spots