The Early Jōmon is the first stage in the Jomon era of Japanese pre-history.

The Jomon period itself ranged from 10,000 to 300 BCE, with the first stage lasting from 4000 to 3000 BCE.

The Early Jomon is characterized by high sea levels (2 to 3 meters higher than the modern day) and a significant population increase.

This period sees a rise in complexity in the design of pit houses, the most commonly used method of housing at this time.