The region has a long history going back to the dawn of Japanese civilization, over ten thousand years ago. In those bountiful and peaceful times following the ice age that we call the Jomon period, people led a serene lifestyle which allowed them to pursue artistic proficiency in their crafts. The over 2000 relics that were excavated at the foot of the Yatsugatake all but confirm that.

If you like art and design, we suggest you pay a visit to Togari-ishi Museum to explore the ancient and mysterious world of Jomon art. The museum features a great number of elaborated clay figurines, bowls, jars and utensils made of obsidian.

The pride of the collection are the statuettes of the “Jomon Venus” and the “Masked Goddess”, both designated as National Treasures,. The two exhibits which dates back to 4,000-3,000 BC are voluptuous and graceful, executed with great attention to details.

In the park adjacent to the museum you can explore six traditional Jomon pit dwellings which have been reconstructed to show visitors what a village of that time would like.