Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Omori Shell Mounds is the remains of a Jomon period shell mound located in the Omori area of Ota Ward, Tokyo. It is famous for being the beginning of modern archaeology in Japan, when American zoologist Edward S. Morse conducted an excavation there in 1877 (Meiji 10). Layers of shells, animal bones, and pottery fragments have been found here, making it an extremely important site for learning about the lifestyle, food culture, and environment of the time.
Currently, part of the site from the time of the excavation has been preserved and maintained as a park and information board, and visitors can learn about what it was like at the time from cross-sectional models of the ruins and explanatory panels, and imagine the ancient coastline from the remaining traces and place names in the surrounding area.As a historical vestige remaining in the city, it is popular with local residents, school learning fields, and archaeology enthusiasts.
Highlights
- Historical explanation of the excavation: Information boards and signs outlining the Morse excavation and its significance, as well as an overview of the materials excavated.
- Cross-section displays and models of shell mounds: Models and cross-sections showing the overlapping layers of shells, bones, and pottery allow for an intuitive understanding of the depositional patterns.
- Ruin Garden and Monument: A spot where you can see the original location of the site, including preserved areas remaining on site and monuments commemorating the excavation.
- Walking around the area: The Omori area is dotted with remnants of the old fishing village landscape and places where you can feel the history from the Edo period to modern times. You can feel the changes of the times while walking around.
- Food (Detour): Omori is famous for its eel dishes, so we recommend enjoying some local cuisine after touring the ruins.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
Nearest station: About a 10-minute walk from Omori Station on the JR Keihin-Tohoku Line (walk northeast from the east exit of the station).
Other: It is within walking distance of Omori-Kaigan Station on the Keikyu Line (although it is a little far). If you are taking the bus, the routes departing from Omori Station and Kamata Station are convenient, but please check in advance as the routes and number of buses vary depending on the time of day. If you are coming by car, there are paid parking lots in the area, but the number of spaces is limited, so we recommend using public transportation.
Note: The ruins themselves are located outdoors in a park, so please check the official website or ward information in advance to find out when the indoor exhibition rooms are open (if available).
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short-term viewing: 20-30 minutes (only to check the location of the shell mound and read the explanatory board)
- Thorough observation: 30-60 minutes (including models, reading explanations, and walking around the area)
- Walking around the area: 1.5 to 3 hours (including nearby historical sites, parks, and meals)
Nearby spots
- Omori Furusato no Hamabe Park: A park where you can enjoy strolling along the seaside. A great spot for observing nature and enjoying the scenery.
- Heiwa no Mori Park: A large green space perfect for strolling and resting.
- Ikegami Honmonji Temple (a little far away, but within walking or bus distance): Combining this with a tour of historic temples and shrines makes for a fulfilling sightseeing experience.
- Dining district around Omori: There are many eel restaurants and seafood shops, so you can enjoy local cuisine.
- Local history museums and ward libraries: They may have exhibits and materials related to local history and excavated materials.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Entering conservation areas: Because ruins are also cultural assets, there may be areas that are off-limits or designated for preservation purposes. Please follow the signs and do not enter.
- Handling of exhibited materials: When visiting facilities that house excavated materials or exhibits, please be aware that there are often restrictions on taking photographs and touching the materials.
- Crowd Information: The historic site itself is not as crowded as major tourist destinations, but the number of visitors may increase during school events and on weekends. Please be considerate and keep quiet when visiting.
- Seasons and weather: Most of the tours are outdoors, so please take precautions against the heat in summer (hats and fluids), and against the cold in winter. In rainy weather, please be careful of slippery areas.
- Garbage and smoking etiquette: Smoking is prohibited within the park, and smoking areas may be limited. Please take your garbage with you or dispose of it in the designated area.
- We recommend checking in advance: Opening hours, closing days, and whether or not there are special exhibitions at local facilities (such as museums and exhibition rooms) are subject to change, so please check the official information of Ota City and the relevant facility before visiting.
(Reference) Example sightseeing plan: Get off at Omori Station → Visit the Omori Shell Mound (30-60 minutes) → Stroll to Omori Furusato no Hamabe Park → Have lunch such as eel in the area. Combining a historical stroll with local cuisine will make for a fulfilling experience.
