A Jomon Obsidian Mining Site
The Meaning of “Hoshikuso”
The unusual name Hoshikuso has a fascinating connection with the area’s obsidian. In the local dialect, the word refers to obsidian. From a distance, the fragments of obsidian scattered across the landscape shimmer in the sunlight, creating an impression that pieces of stars have fallen from the sky.
These sparkling fragments are actually pieces of obsidian left behind by Jomon people during the extraction and processing of the volcanic glass. The name beautifully reflects the visual impression created by these countless fragments scattered across the ground.
Discovery and Archaeological Research
From the 1980s Discovery to Detailed Excavation
The site first attracted archaeological attention in 1986, when a distribution survey of the Takayama archaeological site complex was conducted. Large quantities of raw obsidian were discovered on the slopes of Mt. Mushikura.
Further surveys around Hoshikuso Pass began in 1991. Researchers identified approximately 195 crater-like depressions extending toward Mt. Mushikura. Test excavations revealed that some of these depressions were actually ancient obsidian mining pits, providing important evidence of prehistoric resource extraction.
Obsidian Traded Across Ancient Japan
Obsidian from this region has been archaeologically identified at sites across Japan, with evidence indicating that it was transported as far as Hokkaido in northern Japan and Kyushu in the south.
This extensive distribution demonstrates that obsidian was already an important trading commodity during the Jomon period. Hoshikuso Pass was one of the significant production areas supplying this valuable volcanic glass to communities over a remarkably wide area.
A Long History of Obsidian Mining
It is difficult to determine the exact dates when the site was first and last used. However, archaeological research suggests that obsidian mining was actively carried out here over a remarkably long period, from the beginning of the Jomon period through its final stages.
The site therefore provides an exceptional opportunity to understand how prehistoric communities obtained, processed, and distributed valuable natural resources over many generations.
Protection as a National Historic Site
A Vast Ancient Mining Landscape
In 2001, an area of approximately 6.6 hectares, including around 195 mining pits and workshop remains, was officially designated as a National Historic Site.
The area has since been developed as the Hoshikuso Pass Obsidian Source Site Historical Park, allowing both visitors and researchers to explore this remarkable archaeological landscape.
Learning About Obsidian Culture
At the foot of the archaeological site is the Obsidian Experience Museum, where visitors can learn about the culture surrounding obsidian through exhibits and hands-on activities. Obsidian processing experiences offer an especially engaging way to understand how the volcanic glass was transformed into tools and other objects.
A walking trail leads from the surrounding area toward the ancient mining site, and the journey takes approximately 30 minutes on foot.
Meiji University Obsidian Research Center
Located directly below the pass is the Meiji University Obsidian Research Center. Established through joint research between Meiji University and Nagawa Town, the center plays an important role in investigating the archaeological significance of the site and supporting its preservation.
The research center uses the spelling “Kokuyoseki” in its official name, while the National Historic Site itself uses the Japanese characters corresponding to “Kokuyoseki” in its designated name.
Hoshikuso-kan: See an Actual Excavation Trench
A new exhibition facility called Hoshikuso-kan opened in 2021. One of its most distinctive features is the opportunity to view an actual archaeological excavation trench through glass.
This allows visitors to see the archaeological remains directly and gain a more vivid understanding of how researchers investigate ancient mining activities. Rather than simply viewing objects in a display case, visitors can experience the archaeological site itself and imagine how obsidian was extracted thousands of years ago.
Access and Seasonal Visiting Conditions
The archaeological site is located at an elevation of approximately 1,500 meters. Because of heavy snowfall, some facilities may close during the winter season. In particular, Hoshikuso-kan is open seasonally, generally from late April through late November.
The site is approximately one hour by car from Chino Station on the JR East Chuo Main Line. Because of the high elevation and seasonal conditions, visitors should take the opening period and weather into account when planning a trip.
The Academic and Cultural Significance of the Site
Discovering the Knowledge of the Jomon People
Hoshikuso Pass provides valuable evidence of the daily life, resource management, technology, and trade networks of the Jomon people. Obsidian was not merely a material for making tools and arrowheads; it also functioned as an important medium of exchange.
The fact that obsidian from this region traveled across such a vast area demonstrates that prehistoric communities were connected through extensive networks of interaction and trade. The site offers a fascinating glimpse into a sophisticated aspect of Jomon society that existed thousands of years ago.
Part of a Japan Heritage Story
Hoshikuso Pass Obsidian Source Site is included in the Japan Heritage story “The Jomon World of the Starry Central Highlands.” Its archaeological remains embody the distinctive relationship that Jomon communities developed with nature, natural resources, and the spiritual world.
The sparkling obsidian fragments, ancient mining pits, and surrounding highland landscape together create a remarkable setting in which visitors can explore both the practical technologies and cultural values of prehistoric Japan.
Step into the World of Jomon Japan
Hoshikuso Pass Obsidian Source Site is far more than a collection of archaeological remains. It is a place where visitors can discover the technologies, lifestyles, trading networks, and relationship with nature of the Jomon people.
For travelers interested in Japanese history and archaeology, the site offers a rare opportunity to encounter a prehistoric resource landscape in its original mountain setting. The surrounding highland scenery also makes the visit especially rewarding for those who enjoy combining nature, cultural discovery, and hands-on learning.
Visit Hoshikuso Pass and look closely at the obsidian fragments that glimmer like tiny stars across the landscape. In this quiet corner of the Central Highlands, the remains of a world that existed thousands of years ago still tell the story of the people who mined, shaped, and traded this remarkable volcanic glass.