Boar-shaped Clay Object: A Window into Jomon Spirituality

Deep in the northern reaches of Japan's Honshu island lies an extraordinary artifact that offers a rare glimpse into the spiritual world of our prehistoric ancestors. The Boar-shaped Clay Object (猪形土製品, Inoshishigata Doseihin) from the Tokoshinai 2 Site is one of Japan's most remarkable archaeological treasures, designated as an Important Cultural Property for its exceptional artistic quality and cultural significance.

Unearthed in 1960 from the foothills of the sacred Mount Iwaki in Hirosaki City, Aomori Prefecture, this clay figurine stands as testimony to the sophisticated artistic sensibilities and rich spiritual practices of the Jomon people who inhabited these lands some 4,000 years ago.

What Makes This Artifact So Special?

The Jomon period (approximately 14,000-300 BCE) produced numerous animal-shaped clay objects across the Japanese archipelago, from Hokkaido to the Kanto region. However, what sets the Tokoshinai boar apart is its exceptional size and stunning realism.

Measuring 18.0 centimeters in length, 9.7 centimeters in height, and 4.8 centimeters in thickness, this clay boar is remarkably large compared to its contemporaries. While most Jomon animal figurines were small and highly stylized or abstracted, this specimen captures the wild boar's form with striking naturalism. Every curve of its body, the positioning of its legs, and its overall proportions demonstrate an artist who had carefully observed these animals in nature.

This combination of exceptional size and realistic representation makes the Tokoshinai boar virtually unparalleled among Jomon animal figurines, earning it recognition as an Important Cultural Property on June 27, 2011.

The Spiritual Significance of Boar Figurines

Wild boars held profound significance in Jomon society. As one of the primary game animals hunted by these prehistoric people, boars represented not just sustenance but were deeply woven into their spiritual worldview.

Archaeologists believe that boar-shaped clay objects like this one were used in hunting rituals and ceremonies. The Jomon people likely believed that creating such realistic representations would ensure successful hunts or honor the spirits of animals they depended upon for survival. This practice reflects animistic beliefs where animals were seen as sacred beings deserving of reverence.

The exceptional care and skill invested in creating this particular figurine suggests it may have held special importance in ceremonial activities, perhaps used by shamans or community leaders during important rituals related to hunting, seasonal celebrations, or offerings to nature spirits.

The Tokoshinai Archaeological Site

The Tokoshinai 2 Site, where this treasure was discovered, lies at the northeastern foot of Mount Iwaki at an elevation of approximately 100 meters. Mount Iwaki itself, often called "Tsugaru Fuji" for its elegant conical shape, has been a sacred mountain for thousands of years and continues to be revered today.

Archaeological excavations conducted in 1960 revealed a Late Jomon period settlement with pit dwellings, stone arrangements, and an abundance of artifacts. The site has become particularly famous as the type site for "Tokoshinai-style pottery," a distinct ceramic tradition that serves as a chronological marker for the Late Jomon period in northern Tohoku.

Besides the boar figurine, excavations yielded numerous clay and stone artifacts including clay figurines (dogu), triangular clay objects, bell-shaped clay objects, stone arrowheads, stone knives, polished stone axes, stone swords, and various ornaments. Together, these finds paint a vivid picture of a thriving Jomon community with rich material culture and spiritual practices.

Meet "Inocchi" - The Museum's Beloved Mascot

The charming appearance of this ancient boar has captured the hearts of modern visitors. The Hirosaki City Museum has embraced this 4,000-year-old figurine as their mascot character, affectionately named "Inocchi" (いのっち). The name combines "ino" from "inoshishi" (wild boar) with a cute Japanese suffix.

This mascot has helped bring attention to Jomon culture and makes the museum experience more accessible and enjoyable for visitors of all ages. You can find Inocchi-themed merchandise and displays throughout the museum, creating a wonderful bridge between ancient archaeology and contemporary museum culture.

Visiting Hirosaki City Museum

The Boar-shaped Clay Object has been on permanent display at Hirosaki City Museum since April 2014. The museum itself is a cultural destination worth visiting, designed by the renowned architect Kunio Maekawa, a disciple of the legendary Le Corbusier.

Located within the historic Hirosaki Park in the Sannomaru (third bailey) area of Hirosaki Castle, the museum building harmoniously blends with its surroundings of ancient pines and castle walls. The red brick exterior creates a dignified atmosphere befitting its role as a guardian of Tsugaru region's cultural heritage.

The museum's permanent exhibition traces Tsugaru's history from prehistoric times through the modern era, with particular emphasis on the Tsugaru clan's rule during the Edo period. Special exhibitions throughout the year highlight various aspects of regional art, history, and culture.

Exploring the Surrounding Area

A visit to see the Boar-shaped Clay Object can easily be combined with exploring Hirosaki's many other attractions:

Hirosaki Castle and Park: One of Japan's most celebrated cherry blossom viewing spots, the park contains approximately 2,600 cherry trees of about 50 varieties. The castle tower itself is one of only 12 original castle keeps remaining in Japan. Spring brings spectacular pink landscapes, while autumn offers stunning foliage displays.

Mount Iwaki: The sacred mountain where the Tokoshinai site was discovered offers hiking opportunities and spiritual connections to the Jomon past. The mountain's distinctive silhouette has been revered for millennia and continues to dominate Hirosaki's western skyline.

Iwaki Shrine: Located at the mountain's base, this ancient shrine has been a center of regional worship for over 1,200 years. The approach is lined with towering cedar trees, creating a mystical atmosphere.

Omori Katsuyama Site: A UNESCO World Heritage site as part of "Jomon Prehistoric Sites in Northern Japan," this stone circle site offers another perspective on Jomon spiritual practices. It's located nearby and makes an excellent day trip for those interested in prehistoric Japan.

Best Times to Visit

Hirosaki offers unique experiences throughout the year:

• Spring (late April - early May): The famous Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival transforms the park into a sea of pink. This is the most popular time to visit but also the most crowded.
• Summer (August 1-7): The Hirosaki Neputa Festival features spectacular illuminated floats parading through the streets. The museum offers extended context for understanding local traditions.
• Autumn (late October - early November): The Chrysanthemum and Autumn Leaves Festival showcases the park's beautiful fall colors alongside chrysanthemum displays.
• Winter (February): The Snow Lantern Festival creates a magical winter wonderland with snow sculptures and lanterns throughout the park.

For a quieter museum experience with pleasant weather, consider visiting in early June or September when tourist crowds are smaller.