JOMON: A Sustainable Civilization

Japan's Jomon period was a time of peace that persisted for over 10,000 years. As the world moves towards implementing the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, the sustainable practices of Jomon society are receiving renewed attention. In this program, broadcaster Peter Barakan investigates Jomon history in search of guidance for us in the 21st century. We see buildings and artifacts at one of the largest Jomon ruins in the country, and meet craftspeople inspired by Jomon culture.

The Sannai-Maruyama Site is one of the largest Jomon sites in Japan
Peter Barakan examines excavated artifacts and considers the Jomon wisdom they embody
We learn more about the mysterious figurines known as "dogu"
Skilled potter Ichinohe Hiroomi is an expert maker of dogu
Okada Yasuhiro spearheads the archaeological dig at the Sannai-Maruyama Site
Saito Kazuhiko recreated Jomon period lacquerware

Transcript