“A festival at a Jōmon site?” It may sound surprising at first. But at Umenoki Ruins Park, a nationally designated Jōmon historic site in Akeno, Hokuto City (Yamanashi), the atmosphere of ancient Japan makes music, dance, and food feel even more memorable—and that’s exactly what makes this event so special each year.
On October 25, 2025, the park hosted the “3rd Umenoki Ukiuki Festival.” Many visitors gathered, and it was wonderful to see people of all ages—from children to adults—enjoying an autumn day in their own way. In the relaxed highland air, Jōmon history and today’s lively energy blended gently together, creating an event that feels truly “Hokuto.”
Discover Akeno’s Past on Foot: The “History Walk”
In the morning, participants joined a “History Walk” around Akeno. The course was about 5 km, visiting historical buildings and local sites along the way. Staff members shared explanations as everyone walked, and hearing stories while seeing the landscape in front of you makes the region’s history feel far more personal. It was a quiet luxury—an experience that reveals depth you might miss with sightseeing alone.
Hands-On Workshops Inspired by Jōmon Life
At the ruins park, there were plenty of family-friendly workshops. Visitors could try woodcutting with a stone axe, make kites, or create bird-call instruments. Smiles were everywhere, and the joyful “I did it!” moments from children naturally brought out smiles from adults too—filling the venue with warm, friendly energy.
Global Sounds Echo Through a Jōmon Circle
One of the festival’s highlights was the stage set within the remains of a circular settlement. In this “circle” space from the Jōmon era, cultures from around the world came together.
Performances included Latin American folkloric music, African drumming, Japanese folk songs played on the flute, and belly dance. One act after another captivated the crowd. Hearing global rhythms in such a historical place feels strangely natural—and with the Jōmon site as the “stage,” the sound seems even more vivid and three-dimensional.
In the finale, a local traditional dance called “Okagura” was performed. The moment when local heritage connected with world cultures felt like the very symbol of this festival—an experience where the ancient past and today’s creativity overlap and gently point toward the future.
A Marche That Satisfies Both Stomach and Heart
The marche surrounding the stage was also bustling. From braised pork bento and wild game dishes to natural-yeast bread, smoked roast beef, and wood-fired pizza, local flavors lined up beautifully—perfect after walking, watching, and joining workshops. Handmade items were also plentiful, making it easy to enjoy both food and crafts and take a small piece of the festival’s afterglow home with you.
A Community Festival Linking History to the Future
The Umenoki Ukiuki Festival is more than just a fun event—it’s also a place where local history and culture are carried forward into the future. With world music, dance, and food gathering at a Jōmon site and resonating with local tradition, it becomes a deeply memorable experience for travelers too.
The festival is planned to continue in the coming years. If you visit Hokuto in autumn, consider adding it to your itinerary—an event where you can feel the “time of the land” alongside your sightseeing.