Overview
The Hirabaru Site is a Yayoi period site in Itoshima City, Fukuoka Prefecture. As part of the Sone Sites, it is designated a National Historic Site, and this location facing the Genkai Sea is regarded as the royal tomb where a powerful figure of ancient times was laid to rest. It is especially known for yielding one of Japan's largest bronze mirrors of the naiko-kamon type, a mirror designated a National Treasure. For lovers of ancient history, it is a must-see spot that brings home how deeply the land of Itoshima was tied to the ancient realms recorded in Chinese chronicles.
Highlights
- ●A royal tomb that yielded a large bronze mirror now a National Treasure
- ●A National Historic Site forming part of the Sone Sites
- ●A site evoking a powerful figure of Yayoi period Itoshima
- ●An ancient-history spot with ties to early realms
History
The Hirabaru Site is a Yayoi period site that, as one of the Sone Sites, was designated a National Historic Site of Japan in October 1982, with its protected area expanded in October 2000. Numerous grave goods, above all a large bronze mirror of the naiko-kamon type, were found here, suggesting that the person buried held extraordinary authority. The large mirror unearthed is designated a National Treasure and stands as an important source in Japanese ancient history, conveying that an advanced culture and an influential power existed in Yayoi period Itoshima.
Access
The site lies in Itoshima City, Fukuoka Prefecture, near 33.54 degrees north and 130.23 degrees east. It can be reached from the western part of Fukuoka City toward Itoshima, and traveling by car is convenient. As distances from the nearest station or bus stop, the extent and hours of viewing, and information on related exhibition facilities may change, please check official information before your visit.
Best season
As an outdoor historic site, the comfortable seasons of spring and autumn suit a visit. Itoshima is a region blessed with sea and farmland, and on days of mild weather you can take your time exploring alongside the surrounding scenery. Guard against the heat in summer and dress warmly in winter. If you wish to see the excavated finds, it is reassuring to confirm the opening status of related facilities in advance.
Map
33.5423, 130.2284 · Wikidata
Suggested itinerary
- 1Reach the site in Itoshima City from western Fukuoka City
- 2Visit the tomb and reflect on ancient authority
- 3See excavated finds and explanations at related facilities
- 4Enjoy a stroll amid Itoshima's sea and farmland scenery
Did you know?
💡 The large naiko-kamon bronze mirror unearthed at the Hirabaru Site is so precious that it has been designated a National Treasure. Forming part of the cluster of tombs that make up the Sone Sites, it draws attention as a royal tomb attesting that a figure of great power lived in Itoshima during the Yayoi period.
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