In brief
In an innovative study, researchers reconstruct the potential sea routes of ancient humans who migrated to Japanese islands over 30,000 years ago, relying on advanced technology and experimental archaeology.
In a groundbreaking research project, a team led by anthropologist Yousuke Kaifu from the University of Tokyo has embarked on an expedition that mirrors the adventurous spirit of Thor Heyerdahl's historic Kon-Tiki voyage. Their goal? To shed light on how ancient humans navigated the formidable Kuroshio current from Taiwan to islands such as Okinawa, over 30,000 years ago. In a methodologically creative endeavor termed "experimental archaeology," the team crafted a 25-foot-long dugout canoe named Sugime from a cedar log. This initiative sought to explore early human migration techniques, using only natural navigational aids like stars, the sun, and wind. Progressing from eastern Taiwan to Yonaguni Island over a grueling 45-hour journey, the crew of five faced the vastness of the ocean without any modern navigational tools, testing various paddling methods and seasonal conditions to gather data.Recent studies published in the journal Science reflect the findings of this unique expedition. One study utilized advanced ocean modeling to simulate over a hundred virtual voyages, analyzing potential migration routes under both prehistoric and modern conditions. The second study documents the real-life journey of the Sugime crew, offering insights into ancient navigation methods that could lead to a greater understanding of human migration patterns during the Paleolithic era.Renowned archaeologist Peter Bellwood, who was not part of the research, remarked upon the significance of the findings. He affirmed that such maritime crossings represent crucial chapters in the history of human migration. This reconstruction of ancient voyaging contributes to our understanding of early human resilience and adaptability in exploring the boundless oceans long before the advent of modern navigation tools.
