The Post-Jomon Culture in Hokkaido

Fish–Shaped Fishing Tackle
Place of excavation unknown, Epi-Jōmon period, 2nd–1st century BC

Japanese Archaeology and Special Exhibition (Heiseikan) Japanese Archaeology Gallery
September 9, 2025 (Tue) - February 1, 2026 (Sun)

A variety of stone tools were used during this period, including single- and double-edged polished stone axes, as well as stone knives and harpoon heads for hunting and butchering sea mammals and other animals. There are also unique fish-shaped stones that were probably used as bait for fishing. Pottery continued to feature rich decorations. Additionally, cylindrical jewelry made out of jasper from Sado island, objects made out of seashells from Japan’s southern seas, and iron tools have also been excavated. These objects suggest interaction with the Yayoi culture on the mainland as well as cultures on the Asian continent via the island of Sakhalin to the north.

Major Work(s) on Exhibit 5 results

	Designation	Name	Creation/ Excavation/ Provenance	Period	Acquisition/ Ownership/ Accession Number	CMT
Highlight		Spade	Found in Muroran City, Hokkaido	Epi-Jōmon period, 2nd–1st century BC	J-21845
Highlight		Jar	Found in Muroran City, Hokkaido	Epi-Jōmon period, 2nd–1st century BC	J-21831
Highlight		Jar	Found in Esashi Town, Hokkaido	Okhotsk Culture period, 6th–7th century	J-22409
Highlight		Fish-Shaped Fishing Tackle	Place of excavation unknown	Epi-Jōmon period, 2nd–1st century BC	J-2754
Highlight		Stone Knives	Found in Muroran City, Hokkaido	Epi-Jōmon period, 2nd–1st century BC	J-21843

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