3,800 Years Later: A Jomon Woman Tells Her Story Through Cutting-Edge Genetic Research

In recent years, the rapid advancement of analytical instruments and techniques, along with the dedicated research efforts of pioneering scientists, has significantly progressed the DNA analysis of ancient human remains. As a result, we are gradually able to visualize the true identity of the ancestors of the Japanese people.

In this session, we will take a unique approach by conducting a virtual interview with ancient individuals whose bones have contributed to genetic analysis. Through this format, we aim to delve deeper into their human nature, lifestyle, and characteristics.

Let me introduce myself—M, the interviewer, who has a deep interest in Jomon and Yayoi people, as well as Japan’s history and culture. I have personally programmed and built this website from scratch.

Today, our guest for the virtual interview is F23, an individual excavated from the Funadomari site on Rebun Island, Hokkaido. We will refer to her as “Funamin” for ease of conversation. Since Funamin does not speak modern Japanese, we will use a special translator for communication. Thank you for your understanding. (The content of this interview is based on research in molecular anthropology and archaeology.)

Interview with Funamin

M: First, let’s introduce today’s guest, Funamin. She is a Jomon woman who lived approximately 3,800 years ago on Rebun Island, Hokkaido. According to genetic research, modern Japanese people inherit about 10-20% of Jomon DNA, and in populations like Okinawans and the Ainu, the percentage is even higher.

Funamin has rested beneath the soil at the Funadomari site for thousands of years. Due to the cold climate, her bones were remarkably well-preserved, allowing for high-precision genome sequencing. This has revealed many interesting insights about her life.

M: Funamin, thank you for joining us today.

Funamin: My pleasure.

M: Your face has been reconstructed from genomic data and displayed at exhibitions.

Funamin: I never imagined something like this! It feels like I’ve been rudely awakened after thousands of years. Well, the reconstructed face does look quite accurate. I guess I’ve become an old woman, which is a bit embarrassing. I wish they had shown me at a younger age instead!

M: According to your genome, you were 146 cm tall, had curly hair, brown eyes, and your skin tone may have been a toasted wheat-like shade, prone to sun spots. You were somewhat short, even compared to Jomon women. Also, since we are using DNA—which is the ultimate form of personal information—for this interview, we appreciate your understanding.

Funamin: Hmm… I don’t quite get it, but okay!

M: What was life like where you lived?