Saitobaru Kofun Cluster
A ancient tomb in Miyazaki — vast tombs of ancient rulers.
Overview
The Saitobaru Kofun Cluster is one of Japan's largest groups of ancient burial mounds, spread across the Miyake, Dojimaru, and Migimatsu areas of Saito City, Miyazaki Prefecture. More than 300 tumuli dot a diluvial plateau about 70 meters above sea level, and the site is designated a Special Historic Site of Japan. It is a celebrated place for historical strolling amid a vast landscape woven by some of Japan's foremost kofun.
Highlights
- ●A kofun cluster designated a Special Historic Site
- ●Over 300 tumuli scattered across the plateau
- ●The large Osahozuka and Mesahozuka Kofun
- ●Vast landscape of a Best 100 Urban Park
History
With Mound No. 81 currently regarded as the oldest, the tombs are estimated to have been built from the early 4th century to the first half of the 7th century. Designated a Historic Site and further a Special Historic Site of Japan, the cluster includes large tombs such as the Osahozuka Kofun and the Mesahozuka Kofun.
Access
It lies in the Miyake, Dojimaru, and Migimatsu areas of Saito City, Miyazaki Prefecture, with the tombs spread widely across a plateau about 70 meters high. The whole plateau is maintained as a park, counted among Japan's 100 Best Urban Parks, but please confirm exact routes and how to tour the grounds on maps or official information.
Best season
For walking the broad plateau, the mild climate of spring and autumn is comfortable and recommended. Flowers, fresh greenery, and autumn colors add hues to the kofun landscape, and strolling during bright daytime hours lets you enjoy the undulating terrain.
Map
32.1178, 131.3894 · Wikidata
Suggested itinerary
- 1Begin with a stroll overlooking the plateau tombs
- 2Visit the Osahozuka and Mesahozuka Kofun
- 3Trace the scattered tombs and sense the history
- 4Close by enjoying the Best 100 Urban Park scenery
Did you know?
💡 The cluster is known for the large Osahozuka Kofun and Mesahozuka Kofun standing side by side as its representative tombs.
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