Omori Shell Mounds

The shell mounds contain multiple layers of discarded shells, pottery fragments, and ancient tools from prehistoric settlements along the Tokyo Bay coast.

American zoologist Edward S. Morse discovered these mounds in 1877 during a train journey, leading to the first scientific archaeological excavation in Japan.

The pottery found in the mounds features cord patterns pressed into wet clay, which gave the Jōmon period its name and represents early Japanese craftsmanship.

The site opens daily from 9:00 to 17:00 and stands within a five-minute walk from the north entrance of Ōmori Railway Station.

The fingerprint analysis of pottery fragments at this site led Dr. Henry Faulds to develop modern criminal investigation techniques using fingerprint identification.

Location: Ōi

Location: Sannō

Address: 1-chōme-3-3 Sannō, Ota City, Tokyo 143-0023, Japan 143-0023

Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday 09:00-17:00

Phone: +81337771070

Website: https://city.ota.tokyo.jp/shisetsu/rekishi/sannou/oomorikaiduka.html

GPS coordinates: 35.59068,139.72913

Latest update: May 26, 2025 21:27