A study on transmission of World Heritage values in Jomon Prehistoric Sites in Northern Japan

Abstract

Jomon Prehistoric Sites in Northern Japan will be inscribed on the World Heritage List at the 44th session of the World Heritage Committee in 2021. The value of each of the component sites is transmitted to visitors through various efforts such as exhibitions and hands-on learning. This study clarified the current situation and the issues to determine whether the efforts made at each site contribute to transmitting the value of the sites as a World Heritage site to visitors. This study analyzed and evaluated whether the Outstanding Universal Value (OUV) of the sites is transmitted through the three approaches: the explanatory panels at the outdoor interpretation facilities, the explanatory panels at the guidance facilities, and the hands-on learning at the interactive learning facilities. As a result, it was found that the degree of transmission of the OUV of the sites was uneven depending on the aspect. To effectively transmit the value of the sites, it would be desirable to eliminate this bias and to consider measures so that the information conveyed by explanatory boards and panels and the actions conveyed by hands-on learning are integrated with the archaeological remains.