Shimaki Paleolithic Site, Kamishihoro, Hokkaido, Japan

Central Washington University
Tokyo Metropolitan University

6

$1700-$2000 (approximate)

$650 (approximate)

$850 (approximate)

This is a field methods class requiring students to live and work together as a group while they learn archaeological field methods and contribute to the success of a long-term research project. The primary objective of the course is to provide students with instruction and practical experience in basic methods and techniques of archaeological fieldwork. The experience is gained in the context of a long-term research project designed to produce specimens, records, and data that will support further laboratory analysis and eventual publication of research results. Students thus will be making important contributions to the research while they are learning basic field methods. Through discussions and practical applications, students will develop a thorough understanding of how their work in the field relates to the overall research design of the Shimaki Paleolithic Archaeology Project.

The excavation schedule will be divided into six-day sessions with one-day breaks. During breaks we will have group excursions and free time. We will live at an improved campground ~200 m from the excavation site. We will use the campground facilities to cook meals, eat, hold lectures and have labs. The first week of the program will be held in Ellensburg at the CWU campus. The remaining three weeks will be spent in Japan.

All participants must be prepared to camp for the full field season. We expect that it will be very hot and humid for most of the summer. Day-time temperatures frequently reach 90° F, and they drop down to 40° F at night. But, be prepared for a variety of weather conditions. Since we will be travelling overseas, you must pack “light”. Since we'll be camping for the summer, however, you should try to be as comfortable as possible. Having a tent is required. You need not bring any cooking equipment. All food and eating materials will be provided unless you wish to eat or drink something special. We will not have a typical “western” menu. All archaeological excavation gear will be provided. Bathing facilities are available at a local traditional Japanese bathhouse in Kamishihoro for a single-use fee of around $4.00.

Prehistoric

Paleolithic

Warm and humid. Expect high precipitation. The site is on an alluvial terrace within the city limits of Kamishihoro.

The site is within 200 m of the campground.

7:30 Reveille
8:00-8:45 Breakfast
9:00-10:45 Fieldwork
10:45-11:00 Break
11:00-12:00 Fieldwork
12:00-1:00 Lunch
1:00-3:45 Fieldwork
3:45-4:00 Break
4:00-5:00 Fieldwork
5:00-5:30 Overview of the Day's work
5:30-6:00 Break
6:00-7:00 Dinner

no

Dr. Ian Buvit
Dr. Karisa Terry
Prof. Masami Izuho

Japanese excavation methods

yes

yes

no

no

Ian Buvit
Central Washington University
400 E. University Way
Ellensburg, WA 98926-7516