Ofune Archaeological Site
Walk Through the World of the Jomon People
Explore a thriving settlement that endured for more than 1,500 years. Discover remarkably deep pit dwellings and traces of a rich spiritual culture on a scenic coastal terrace.
As part of the UNESCO World Heritage property Jomon Prehistoric Sites in Northern Japan, the Ofune Archaeological Site in Hakodate preserves the remains of a large settlement that flourished from around 3500 BCE. Situated on a coastal terrace overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the site offers sweeping views and a direct connection to the people who lived here for over fifteen centuries. More than 200,000 artifacts, including pottery, burial goods, and animal remains, have been unearthed, providing valuable insight into Jomon life and beliefs.
One of the site's most distinctive features is its unusually large pit dwellings, some more than two meters deep. Reconstructed houses help visitors visualize daily life in prehistoric Japan, while the large ceremonial earthworks reveal aspects of the community's spiritual practices and worldview. Accompanied by the gentle sound of the nearby Ofune River, a visit to the site becomes a journey through both history and nature.
Ofune Archaeological Site offers a unique opportunity to experience Japan's prehistoric heritage in a setting of exceptional natural beauty.
- * Please note that the text shown on this page includes machine translations.
- Category
- Historic sites, castles, culture properties, architecture
- World Heritage sites, Jomon culture, Ainu culture
- History, culture, art
- Travel Inspiration
- Adventure Travel
- Nearest airports
General Information
- Postal code
- 〒041-1622
- Address
- 北海道函館市大船町
- Telephone Number
- 0138-25-2030（Hakodate Jomon Culture Center）
- Open
- 9:00-17:00 (Apr.-Oct.)
9:00-16:00 (Nov.-Mar.) - Closed
- Year-end and New Year holidays
- Prices
- Free
- Car Park
- 24 spaces, free
- Directions
- ●By car: About 10 minutes from Hakodate Jomon Culture Center
●By car: About 40 minutes from Hakodate Airport
●By car: About 60 minutes from JR Hakodate Station - Website
- Remarks
- ■Archaeological Site Tour: A partial reconstruction of a Jomon-period settlement
■Administration Building: In addition to information about the Ofuna Site, the building features a panel exhibition on the World Heritage Site “Jomon Archaeological Sites of Hokkaido and Northern Tohoku.”
* Information on facilities is subject to change. Please check each official website for the latest information.
