Discover the Jomon Era: The Exhibition Featuring the Picture Book 'Makku no Mori'

Dive into the Jomon Era with 'Makku no Mori'

This summer, the Machida City Central Library will host a captivating exhibition titled "Exploring the Jomon Town through the Picture Book 'Makku no Mori.'" This event aims to foster a deeper appreciation for Machida's Jomon culture among residents by introducing them to the town's unique character, Makku, inspired by archaeological findings from the Jomon period. The exhibition runs from July 10 to August 9, 2026, offering free admission to all attendees.

What to Expect from the Exhibition

The exhibition features engaging panels that portray scenes from the Jomon era depicted in the picture book 'Makku no Mori.' These illustrations are designed to make the history and culture of the Jomon period accessible and entertaining for visitors of all ages. The display will include artifacts and archaeological materials discovered within the city, allowing participants to gain insight into the daily lives, customs, and artistic expressions of ancient Jomon inhabitants.

Makku, the character serving as the exhibition's centerpiece, was created based on the "Hollow Clay Figurine Head" discovered at the Tabata East archaeological site, which is designated as an important cultural asset of Machida City. This beloved character has become a part of the local culture, frequently appearing in school lunches as 'Makku lunches,' featuring decorated nori (seaweed) and toast meant to delight elementary and middle school students.

A Rich Program of Related Events

In addition to the main exhibition, there will be several related activities to enhance visitors' experiences:
1. Special Book Corner: A section dedicated to literature about the Jomon period will be set up in the 5th floor of the library from July 10 to August 12, providing further educational resources.

2. Character Awards Entry: This year, Makku represents Machida in the Museum Character Award 2026, an annual event since 2010 that recognizes Japan's top museum characters. The entry period will take place from late July to early September, giving attendees a chance to support Makku's participation.

The Machida City Central Library will be open from 10 AM to 8 PM on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, while on Thursdays, Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays, the hours are from 10 AM to 5 PM. Please note that the library will be closed on July 13, 27, and August 3.

Encouraging Community Engagement

This exhibition not only aims to educate attendees about the rich history of the Jomon era but also encourages community engagement and interest in local heritage. By utilizing a beloved character like Makku, the city hopes to make learning about history more relatable and enjoyable for residents and tourists alike.

So, mark your calendars for this unique opportunity to connect with Machida's ancient past through the imaginative lens of 'Makku no Mori.' For more information, please visit the official Machida City website. Don’t miss this chance to explore, learn, and celebrate the rich tapestry of Jomon heritage in our community!