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Sachihiro Omura, a revered Japanese archaeologist who conducted excavations in Türkiye for nearly four decades, has died in the central Anatolian city of Kirsehir.
Known for leading the archaeological digs at Kaman Kalehoyuk since 1985, Omura passed away at Kaman State Hospital at the age of 75.
Omura, born in 1949, first arrived in Türkiye in 1972 as a student and went on to dedicate most of his professional life to unearthing the ancient history of Anatolia.
He was the founder and head of the Japanese Institute of Anatolian Archaeology and became a highly respected figure for his contributions to both archaeology and cultural diplomacy.
Omura was not only an expert in his field but also a symbol of cultural connection between Japan and Türkiye.
Through his work at Kaman Kalehoyuk and the establishment of the adjacent Archaeological Museum and Japanese Garden, he helped foster mutual respect and cooperation between the two countries.
In December, Omura welcomed Japan’s Crown Prince and Princess Akishino to the Kaman Kalehoyuk Archaeological Museum and Japanese Garden during their visit to mark the 100th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Türkiye and Japan.
For his outstanding contributions, Omura received Türkiye’s State Medal of Distinguished Service in 2008 and Japan’s Order of the Rising Sun.
He was widely respected not only for his scientific achievements but also for his deep appreciation of Turkish culture and history.
Minister of Culture and Tourism Mehmet Nuri Ersoy expressed his sorrow over Omura’s passing, calling him a key figure in the friendship between Türkiye and Japan.
“I have learned with deep sadness of the death of Sachihiro Omura, who made great contributions to our archaeology for over 50 years and was awarded the Türkiye State Medal of Distinguished Service,” Ersoy shared on social media.
“Leading the Kaman Kalehoyuk excavations and founding the Japanese Institute of Anatolian Archaeology, Omura built a true cultural bridge between our countries. His lasting contributions to Turkish and world archaeology will always be remembered with respect,” the minister added.
Ersoy extended his condolences to Omura’s family, colleagues, and admirers, emphasizing the profound loss for the global scientific community.
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