雁屋遺跡

Beneath the Osaka sun, the Kariya Iseki (Kariya Ruins) whispers tales of a bygone era. More specifically, we stand before the remnants of the Kariyaiseki settlement, marked by the impressive Kariyai Seki mound. This mound, reaching a height of approximately 8 meters, offers a glimpse into the Yayoi period, a time spanning from 2500 to 1750 years ago. Kariyai Seki served as a central hub for this region, its influence extending across centuries. The site’s strategic location, overlooking the Koya River, provided a stable and relatively secure settlement in the low-lying lands. Kariyai Seki was first brought to light during a test excavation in 1958, conducted west of the Shijonawate High School grounds. Further investigation followed, with the Osaka Prefectural Board of Education carrying out six rounds of excavations between 1961 and later years, as the high school underwent renovations. These excavations unearthed a wealth of artifacts, including pottery, wooden items, and stone tools, painting a vibrant picture of life in the Yayoi period. The abundance of pottery shards, in particular, cemented Kariyai Seki’s reputation as one of the largest settlements of its time in the northern Kawachi region. The story of Kariyai Seki continues to unfold, thanks to the tireless efforts of archaeologists. One notable discovery is the presence of bronze bells, or dotaku, artifacts characteristic of the middle to late Yayoi period. These bells, with their unique triangular and willow-leaf shapes, bear witness to the settlement’s evolution and its connections to wider communities. No two bells found at Kariyai Seki are identical, hinting at the artistry and individuality of their creators. One particularly remarkable bronze bell, a multi-holed dotaku, reveals a fascinating detail: the holes were drilled after the bell’s body had been cast, suggesting a specific purpose or ritual significance. The largest willow-leaf shaped bell, measuring 6 centimeters in length, exemplifies the craftsmanship of the Yayoi people. The diverse forms of these bronze bells, unearthed at Kariyai Seki, suggest a dynamic exchange of ideas and traditions between the Kariya settlement and other regions.