Kawaguchi Ruins Scenic Forest (川口遺跡風景林) is a Jomon Period cultural heritage
destination. It is located at 1461 Kawaguchi in the town of Teshio, Teshio
District, Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan.
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| Kawaguchi Ruins Scenic Forest |
Kawaguchi Ruins Scenic Forest Details
Located along the Teshio River, the
Kawaguchi Ruins Scenic Forest is a historically rich site that offers a
fascinating glimpse into life from the Jomon period to just after the Satsumon
period. The ruins were first identified during surveys conducted between 1964
and 1965, with further investigations from 1978 to 1981. Today, the forest is
home to a remarkable cluster of 230 pit dwellings that stretch across 200
meters in width and 1.5 kilometers in length, nestled within the sand dune
forest along the river.
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| Kawaguchi Ruins Scenic Forest - Teshio town, Hokkaido Prefecture |
The restored pit dwellings, located in the
northern and southern sections of the site, provide an immersive experience for
visitors, showcasing how people once lived in these ancient homes.
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| Rumoi Subprefecture and Teshio town maps |
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| Entrance to Kawaguchi Ruins Scenic Forest |
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| 川口遺跡風景林 |
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| Teshio New Shikoku 88 Sacred Sites |
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| Kawaguchi Ruins Scenic Forest map |
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| The entrance to the forest |
A restored
dwelling, positioned just 50 meters from the entrance, features sensor lights
that illuminate the interior, offering a closer look at how the early
inhabitants slept and lived. In addition, excavated earthenware and stone tools
from the ruins are displayed at the Teshio History Museum, further enhancing
the cultural experience.
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| This is where our adventure begins |
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| Rishirifuji as seen from the banks of the Teshio River |
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| Teshio River |
Ainu Dwelling
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| Inside the restored Ainu dwelling |
More photos around Kawaguchi Ruins Scenic Forest
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| Exploring more of the forest |
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| Several Buddhist statues can be found in the forest |
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| The shrine inside the forest |
For those looking to enjoy the natural
beauty of the area, a spacious promenade leads directly to the serene shore of
the Teshio River, where visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk. Along the way, you
may encounter a large swarm of red ants, which may climb on your feet if you
stand still. The promenade is wide and easy to navigate, making it an enjoyable
stroll for visitors of all ages.
On May 24, 2023, while waiting for my bus
back to Rumoi City after visiting Teshio High School, I spontaneously decided
to visit the Kawaguchi Ruins Scenic Forest. It marked my 569th day in Japan as
an ALT under the JET Programme. Although I wasn’t dressed appropriately for the
visit—still in my formal work attire—I decided to explore the forest, despite
sweating in the heat. Thankfully, the weather was pleasant, and the experience
turned out to be incredibly memorable. I was the only person there, which made
it feel even more special. Standing among the ancient Jomon dwellings, I
couldn’t help but imagine what life was like during that era. I’m excited to
bring my family here someday to share the experience.
Kawaguchi Ruins Scenic Forest Admission Fee
It’s FREE to enter and explore the
Kawaguchi Ruins Scenic Forest. There is also a FREE parking area near the
entrance of the forest.
Kawaguchi Ruins Scenic Forest Operating
Hours
The Kawaguchi Ruins Scenic Forest is open
from May to October.
Why visit the Kawaguchi Ruins Scenic
Forest?
Whether you’re interested in Japanese
history, and culture, or simply enjoy nature walks, the Kawaguchi Ruins Scenic
Forest offers a unique and immersive experience that brings the past to life
while allowing visitors to appreciate the natural beauty surrounding the Teshio
River.
Getting to Kawaguchi Ruins Scenic Forest
The most convenient way to reach the
Kawaguchi Ruins Scenic Forest is by private or rental car, as it allows you to
explore the area at your own pace without being tied to a bus schedule.
However, if you prefer public transportation, here’s the route I’m familiar
with.
From Rumoi City, take the Rumoi–Toyotomi
bus operated by the Engan Bus company and get off at the Teshio Koko Mae bus
stop. From there, it’s about an 800-meter walk to the Kawaguchi Ruins Scenic
Forest.
Here’s the timetable for the Rumoi-Toyotomi
route of the Engan Bus Company. LINK
Travel time: 3 hours and 15 minutes
Fare: 2,510 yen
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