Yamanashi Prefectural Archaeology Museum is holding its fiscal year 2026 summer exhibition, "Tales of Jade — Messages from Ancient Times," spotlighting the many "tama" (jade and stone beads) crafted from the Jomon through Kofun periods, and exploring the meaning these ornaments held for the people of prehistoric and ancient Japan.
Exhibition Dates
July 11 (Sat) to August 30 (Sun), 2026
Closed Mondays during the exhibition (except July 20 and August 10, when the museum is open), and also closed Tuesday, July 21.
9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last admission at 4:30 PM)
Venue
Special Exhibition Room, Yamanashi Prefectural Archaeology Museum (923 Shimosone-cho, Kofu City)
Admission
Free.
Viewing the permanent exhibition requires a separate admission fee (¥220 for general visitors and university students).
About the Exhibition
Jade ornaments were more than adornments — they are thought to have symbolized the status of their wearers and carried spiritual or ritual significance. They also offer a window into how people of the time built connections through gifting and exchange, and into the skill involved in working such a durable material.
Each piece is small, but holds a wealth of information. Visitors are invited to enjoy these treasures once cherished by people of ancient times.
Related Events
Workshop: Make a Jomon-Style Slit-Ring Ear Ornament Pendant!
Date: August 11 (Tue, holiday), 2026
Times: 9:30 AM / 10:30 AM / 1:00 PM / 2:00 PM
Venue: Entrance Hall, Yamanashi Prefectural Archaeology Museum
Open to all ages; participants in 5th grade of elementary school or younger should be accompanied by a guardian.
Capacity: 8 people per session (4 sessions, 32 total)
Fee: Free
Sign-up: First-come, first-served on the day. Please arrive at the venue by your desired session time.
Gallery Talk by Museum Curators
Museum curators guide visitors through the exhibition, explaining the pieces on display.
Dates: July 12 (Sun) and August 11 (Tue, holiday), 2026
Times: 10:00 AM / 1:30 PM (same content in both the morning and afternoon sessions)
Venue: Special Exhibition Room, Yamanashi Prefectural Archaeology Museum
Fee: Free
Registration: Not required
