Advocating June 19 as 'Jomon Day': Celebrating the Anniversary of the Omori Shell Mound Discovery by Edward Morse

Origin of June 19 as a Commemorative Day

June 19 is considered the day Edward S. Morse discovered the Omori Shell Mound. In 1877 (Meiji 10), Morse noticed shell mounds exposed in the strata near Omori while looking out the window of a train from Yokohama to Tokyo. He subsequently conducted the first academic archaeological excavation in Japan, leaving a major mark on the development of Japanese archaeology.

Morse called the earthenware excavated from the Omori Shell Mound "Cord-marked pottery," and this term became the etymological root of "Jomon," one of the prehistoric period classifications of the Japanese archipelago.

Intent of Advocating the Commemorative Day

Jomon Dokidoki Kai believes that June 19 is the most appropriate day for "Jomon Day" due to its origin. We propose that all those involved in "Jomon," including fans, researchers, museums, publishers, and local governments, transcend their positions and celebrate this day as a common milestone. We hope this call will spread as an opportunity for everyone who loves, learns about, and communicates Jomon culture to share, rather than a day designated by a specific organization.

About the Logo Design

It seems that Jomon people preferred green stones, such as serpentine and greenstone, which were used for materials like stone axes and stone rods, in addition to jade. The green-toned logo was colored in respect for the Jomon people who built Jomon culture.

Since the period classified as the Jomon period spans over 10,000 years, and the design varies greatly depending on the time and region, specific relics such as dogu (figurines) and flame-style vessels are not included in the design. Instead, it features the cord-marked pattern, the origin of Jomon, and the pit dwelling, an icon of settlement in the Jomon period. The shell motif is based on the Sarubou clam, which was also discovered in the Omori Shell Mound and was believed to be favored by Jomon people.

*The name and logo of "Jomon Day" can be used by anyone, provided the purpose is to improve the awareness of Jomon culture. *It is not mandatory to use this logo when celebrating the anniversary.

Significance of June 19 as a Commemorative Day

Sharing the meaning of the day not only domestically but also internationally. Jomon Dokidoki Kai previously initiated "Dogu Day" on October 9, but this has a problem where the meaning is difficult for non-Japanese speakers to understand because it is based on Japanese wordplay. Because June 19 is a commemorative day based on history, more people will be able to share its meaning.

Use as a PR opportunity just before the summer vacation season. The latter half of June is considered a relatively off-season for museums, archaeological sites, and surrounding shops. Using "Jomon Day" as a trigger, it is expected to convey the appeal of archaeological sites and museums, expand PR opportunities as summer vacation destinations, and facilitate the development of related merchandise such as T-shirts in commercial stores and museum shops.

Public Relations Usage Ideas

Social Media Ideas. It can be used as an opportunity to promote museum collections and spread the charm of Jomon culture to more users.

150th Anniversary of Japanese Archaeology

Next year, 2027, marks 150 years since the discovery of the Omori Shell Mound, and consequently the 150th anniversary of Japanese archaeology. This is expected to significantly boost topics related to "Jomon" and "archaeology." Related events, such as online events or shop events related to the 150th anniversary, can be used as PR platforms.

Related Events

Jomon Day Commemorative Project "Archaeology Goods Fes." Held from June 5 to June 22 at Hands Nagoya store, 10th floor, Earth Laboratory.