The 1st Okayama University Institute for Civilization Dynamics Academic Conference Online on January 24, 2026

Preview of the 1st Okayama University Institute for Civilization Dynamics Academic Conference

Okayama University, based in Okayama City, is hosting its first academic conference organized by the Institute for Civilization Dynamics. This event is set to take place online on January 24, 2026, from 1 PM to 5 PM JST. Participants will need to use Zoom to join the conference.

The focus of this conference is to shed light on the significant but often overlooked role of Kibi in Japan's ancient history and archaeology. While archaeological studies have successfully revealed Kibi's essential contribution to the societal integration of the Japanese archipelago, its historical narratives remain less explored. Through collaborative research that integrates perspectives from both archaeology and ancient history, the conference aims to reconstruct a comprehensive view of ancient Kibi and its impact on the transformation of the region's social dynamics.

The event will kick off with a presentation by Katsunori Imaizumi from the Okayama University Institute for Civilization Dynamics, titled "Possibilities of Ancient Kibi Historical Studies." Following this, Stephen West of the Tokyo National Museum will discuss the settlement patterns and demographic transitions in Kibi during the Yayoi and Kofun periods. Akira Furuichi from Kobe University will present insights into the lineage and traditions affiliated with Kibi's local power. The day will conclude with Ryan Joseph's discourse on the production of iron in ancient Kibi, focusing on identifying the origins of iron ore through lead isotope ratios.

This conference not only presents an opportunity for researchers and students to engage with pioneering ideas, but it also serves as a call for participants from various backgrounds to contribute to this academic dialogue. The collaborative efforts are expected to usher in new understandings of the transformations that have shaped society in ancient Japan.

If you're interested in joining this academic exploration, please register through the link provided in the event details before the application deadline on January 23, 2026. For more information and promotional materials, please visit the Okayama University Institute for Civilization Dynamics' website.

As part of a broader initiative to foster interdisciplinary cooperation in research, the conference is co-sponsored by several projects focusing on the co-creation of human and environmental histories. The event aligns with Okayama University’s commitment to innovation in research and education as it strives to establish itself as a leading institution in addressing global challenges through collaborative engagement.

Mark your calendars for this insightful event and push the boundaries of what we understand about ancient civilizations in Japan. We're looking forward to your participation in what promises to be an enlightening conference that bridges the gap between archaic knowledge and contemporary scholarship.