3,800 Years Later: A Jomon Woman Talks About Her Life Through DNA Research

A long time ago, before samurai and castles, people lived in Japan during the Jomon period. Scientists study their bones to learn more about them. Today, thanks to new technology, we can understand more about the ancestors of Japanese people.

In this interview, we will talk to an ancient person using a virtual conversation. We want to learn about her life, personality, and daily activities.

I am M, the interviewer. I love learning about Jomon and Yayoi people and Japan’s history and culture. I also made this website myself!

Today, our guest is F23, a Jomon woman who lived on Rebun Island, Hokkaido, about 3,800 years ago. We will call her Funamin to make it easier. Since Funamin does not speak modern Japanese, we will use a special translator to talk to her. (This interview is based on research in molecular anthropology and archaeology.)

Interview with Funamin

M: Hello, Funamin! Thank you for talking with us today.

Funamin: Nice to meet you!

M: Scientists used your DNA to recreate your face, and now people can see it at museums.

Funamin: Wow! I never thought this would happen. It feels like I woke up after thousands of years! The face looks like me, but I wish they made me look younger!

M: According to your DNA, you were 146 cm tall, had curly hair, brown eyes, and your skin may have been a toasted wheat-like color, prone to sun spots. You were a little short, even for a Jomon woman.

Funamin: Hmm… I don’t really understand DNA, but okay!

M: What was life like where you lived?