Critical Mass: The Emerging Field of Japanese Diaspora Archaeology

Archaeological studies of the Japanese diaspora have reached critical mass, and now is the time to take stock of the field and chart a coherent path forward. Sorely needed are studies on a wider range of time periods, geographic areas, site types, household and community demographics, and material culture. Equally critical are synergies in methods, terminology, research questions, and theoretical approaches that elevate this field beyond a collection of case studies sharing an ethnic group in common. These links must extend to the wider disciplines of (historical) archaeology and Asian American studies if we wish to engage in productive dialogue and make contributions beyond our narrow focus of study. Papers presented here seek to diversify Japanese diaspora archaeology and forge connections with broader research communities, while also developing innovative theoretical and methodological approaches that lend greater strength and unity to a burgeoning field of increasing relevance in contemporary society.