Ubayama Shell Mound, Archaeological midden in Kashiwaimachi, Japan
The Ubayama Shell Mound is an archaeological site containing remains from the Jomon period, located on a hill roughly 24 meters above sea level. Excavations revealed dwelling pits and abundant shell deposits that provide evidence of early settlement and daily life.
Researchers from Tokyo Imperial University conducted excavations in 1926 and discovered 20 dwelling pits across the site. These findings date to roughly 5000 to 3000 years ago and document how early communities organized their living spaces.
The site tells the story of how Jomon period people lived and what they ate daily. Shell and fish remains found here reveal their relationship with the sea and the local environment around them.
The site is reachable by bus from Moto-Yawata Station, with roughly a 20-minute walk from the Ichikawa Higashi Koko Iriguchi stop to reach the location. Good walking shoes and basic fitness help visitors navigate the hilly terrain comfortably.
One dwelling pit contained the remains of five individuals, including two adult males, two adult females, and a child, offering rare insight into family structures of the time. This discovery stands out because such complete domestic burials are uncommon in midden sites.
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