Japanese Culture History and Archaeology

From the University of Washington, a study of the Kuril Islands northeast of Hokkaido.

Archaeological work in Gunma prefecture; most of the site descriptions and excavation reports are only in Japanese, although there is a growing English component.

Although this site is primarily in Japanese, there is a page called Noteworthy Archaeological Sites that describes ongoing research in Japan, with lots of photographs.

Retired archaeologist Charles T. Keally's website holds a tremendous amount of information in English about Japanese archaeology.

The National Research Institute for Cultural Properties (formerly the Nabunken Centre) provides assistance for local government archaeological investigations all over Japan.

Conducts comprehensive research on ancient cultural heritage, with special emphasis on Nara.

The Niigata Prefectural Museum of History includes descriptions of several of the most important sites in Niigata Prefecture. Information in Japanese, Chinese and English.

A website on the archaeology of the Ryukyu Islands, most specifically on the Jomon period archaeology on Okinawa. Includes a site description of Kiyuna Gaa (Springs).

From the American Public Broadcasting Services' program NOVA, a study of the ties between the Ainu and Jomon by Gary Crawford.

English translations of news stories in the Japanese press about archaeology; but not updated since 2002.

From anthropologist/wanderer Martin Gray, photos and commentary on six architectural and natural wonders of Japan; click on the Index at the bottom to see the entire list.

William Wayne Farris's 1998 book, Sacred Texts and Buried Treasures, provides welcome insight into recent understandings of the historical period of Japan, consisting of the 700 years from AD 100 to 800.

Charles T. Keally's discussion of the scandal surrounding paleolithic sites in Japan.

Conducts paleolithic research throughout Japan; the site includes descriptions of late paleolithic sites on the Yatsugatake plateau.