Event Listing 2022

Circles of Stone: Stonehenge and Prehistoric Japan is an exhibition celebrating the rich culture of prehistoric Japan. Through a number of exquisite objects, some seen for the first time outside of Japan, the exhibition tells the story of Japanese settlements and stone circles of the middle and late Jomon periods, roughly the same time that Stonehenge was built and used. Situated next to the permanent exhibition at the Stonehenge visitor centre, this display offers a unique opportunity to compare the deep pasts of two places on opposite sides of the globe.

The Japan Society is delighted to invite members and friends to a guided tour of the Circles of Stone exhibition with Dr Simon Kaner, Executive Director and Head of the Centre for Archaeology and Heritage at the Sainsbury Institute for the Study of Japanese Arts and Cultures (SISJAC). At Stonehenge, we will also have the chance to meet a group of young people visiting from Nagawa’s Hoshikuso (stardust) obsidian mines to demonstrate prehistoric obsidian working skills. In the afternoon, Simon will travel with us to the nearby Avebury henge and stone circles where visitors can freely explore the prehistoric landmark.

This event is a great opportunity for a last-minute visit to this important exhibition before it closes on 3 September.

The tour will start with a stop in Salisbury, where attendees will have the option to visit either a) Arundells, OR b) Salisbury Cathedral. Please state your preferred option when booking.

a) Arundells: The former home of Sir Edward Heath KG MBE, Prime Minister 1970-1974, situated in the shadow of Salisbury Cathedral. The art collection and personal library of this polymath statesman, includes gifts from world leaders including Chairman Mao and Richard Nixon, paintings by Winston Churchill and notable 20th century artists, Japanese and Chinese art as well as boasting beautiful gardens;

b) Salisbury Cathedral: The stunning Gothic architecture with 800 years of history. You have a chance to explore Britain’s tallest spire and largest Cathedral Close and Cloisters, see the world’s oldest mechanical clock and the best-preserved original 1215 Magna Carta.

Participants may wish to buy lunch at the café at Stonehenge, or bring a packed lunch with them. There are various cafes in the Avebury area.

Circles of Stone: Stonehenge and Prehistoric Japan is curated by SISJAC in partnership with English Heritage and sponsored by the Ishibashi Foundation.

Booking Details
Booking essential - Priority booking for Japan Society members and their guests
Japan Society Members and their family and friends: £65
Non-members: £80
*concessions available - see page for details

Price includes return coach trip to and from London, Stonehenge and Avebury admission & guided tour, plus Arundells OR Salisbury Cathedral admission.

For those who are purchasing concession places with English Heritage membership, please note that:

You will need to pay full admission at the door if you cannot prove your membership on the day.
If your membership does not cover your guest(s), please ensure to add a place without English Heritage membership for your guest(s) when booking.

Bookings open for non-members from 17 July 2023 (More details on how to become a member here)

Booking Deadline: 31 July 2023

Please note that spaces are limited and early booking is recommended.

Private Tour - Circles of Stone: Stonehenge and Prehistoric Japan