Hinodeyama Tile Kiln Site

Overview

The Hinodeyama Tile Kiln Site is an archaeological site in the town of Shikama, Miyagi Prefecture, preserving the remains of seven roof-tile kilns from the Nara period. Designated a National Historic Site on 31 March 1976, it is a rare window onto the ancient history of the Tohoku region, well suited to travellers who enjoy quiet countryside and a glimpse of Japan's early past.

Highlights

• ●Remains of seven roof-tile kilns built in the Nara period
• ●The historic value of a National Historic Site designated in 1976
• ●The quiet ruins evoking ancient tile production in Tohoku
• ●The calm rural landscape of Shikama's fields and low hills

History

In the Nara period, kilns for firing roof tiles were built here, and the remains of seven such kilns survive. The tiles produced were thought to have been used for official and public buildings, evidence of construction activity in ancient Tohoku. In recognition of its importance, the site was designated a National Historic Site (Monument of Japan) on 31 March 1976 and has been protected ever since. For details of its history and finds, consult official information from the town of Shikama.

Map

38.5147, 140.8033 · Wikidata

Suggested itinerary

1. 1Drive to the site from the centre of Shikama
2. 2Follow the signs to walk the area of the seven kiln remains
3. 3Reflect on ancient tile-making while taking in the surrounding fields
4. 4Head back along Shikama's country roads

Did you know?

💡 A tile kiln is a kiln for firing roof tiles, and at Hinodeyama the traces of seven such kilns have been identified, showing that tiles were being produced in a planned way in Nara-period Tohoku. Its designation as a National Historic Site came in 1976, and it is regarded as one of the key sites for understanding the ancient history of the region.

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