Japan is a “Nation of Forest (1)”. 2017/06/29
The rate of forests against total land area is 67% in Japan. This is the second highest rate after Finland among OECD nations, while rates of most other nations are as low as around 10%.
Japan has been respecting forests and appreciating blessings from forests. In consequence, Japan has been keeping forests from ancient time to today, while other nations have destroyed or extinguished forests as civilization went on.
Torihama ruins alongside Japan Sea coast held various remains from 12000 years old to 5000 years old. Scientists excavated and discovered many types of wooden goods made from more than 30 different kinds of wood. People of Jomon Era knew well about differences and features of each kind of wood and picked up the right kind as per particular usages.
Huge wooden roots set in the shape of ring were found from several ruins, alongside Japan Sea coast, which were around 4000-5000 years old. The purpose of buildings were still under study, however it suggested that people at that time already developed the technology to build tall wooden buildings.
Woods had been the most important energy source until Industrial Revolution when coals and oils became main suppliers of energy. And also woods have been main materials for buildings and other tools or common products.
When civilization went on, population was increased and also life styles of people were improved. In consequence, demands for woods were rapidly increased and people of civilization destroyed forests.
Nevertheless, Jomon civilization did not destroy forests but was in awe of nature and kept green forests. People of Jomon were wise enough to know importance of renewable resources and restrain themselves from reckless deforestation.
Image figure of Jomon settlement
