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Saitobaru Kofun Group

Experience ancient romance before Japan's largest tomb cluster.

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Situated near the center of Miyazaki Prefecture, in the city of Saito, this is one of Japan's largest groups of ancient tombs, spreading across a plateau with elevations between 50 to 80 meters. Spanning a vast area of 4.2 km north to south and 2.6 km east to west, it features over 300 tombs dotting the landscape. Now designated as a Special Historic Site by the country, efforts are being made to preserve and utilize the tomb cluster, making it a place where many can relax and feel the atmosphere of ancient times.

Key highlights include Japan's largest scallop-shaped tomb, "Osahozuka Tumulus," and Kyushu's largest keyhole-shaped tomb, "Mesahozuka Tumulus," both restored to their original state to convey the ambiance of their era. The site also houses the "Saitobaru Archaeological Museum" and the "Ancient Life Experience House," where visitors can learn more about the history and origins of the Saitobaru tombs.

Known also as a spot for flowers, it welcomes visitors throughout the year with different scenes: the competing beauty of rapeseed and cherry blossoms in spring, a competition of countless sunflowers in summer, and a land covered with cosmos in autumn.

Highlights

  • Located near the center of Miyazaki Prefecture, it's one of Japan's largest tomb clusters.
  • The site includes the "Saitobaru Archaeological Museum" and the "Ancient Life Experience House" for more in-depth learning about the tombs.
  • Known as a spot for viewing flowers throughout the seasons, including cherry blossoms in spring, sunflowers in summer, and cosmos in autumn.

Photos

  • A sprawling area home to Japan's largest cluster of ancient tombs.

    A sprawling area home to Japan's largest cluster of ancient tombs.

  • The "Saitobaru Archaeological Museum" within the premises.

    The "Saitobaru Archaeological Museum" within the premises.

  • Also renowned as a spot for seasonal flowers.

    Also renowned as a spot for seasonal flowers.

Official FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.

Q

Do you have signs or pamphlets in foreign languages? (If you do, which languages are available?)

A

English is available.

Q

Are coin lockers available?

A

Not available.

Q

Are there restrooms available?

A

There are 6 restrooms.

Q

Is BBQ allowed?

A

No, the use of open flames is prohibited.

Reviews

Details

Name in Japanese
西都原古墳群
Postal Code
881-0005
Address
Saitobaru, Miyake, Saito City, Miyazaki
Telephone
0983-41-1557 (Saito City Tourism Association)
Closed
Open every day※Saitobaru Archaeological Museum・Ancient living experience house closed on Mondays (If it is a national holiday, the next day is closed)
Business Hours
24 hours ※Saitobaru Archaeological Museum 9:30am - 5:30pm, Ancient living experience house 9:30am - 11:15am, 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Admission
Free
Access
From JR Miyazaki Station, take the Miyakoh Bus or Miyakoh City Bus Center bound bus for about 3 minutes, and get off at the "Miyakoh Tachibana-dori Branch" stop. Then, transfer to a bus bound for Saito and ride for about 50 minutes. Get off at the "Saitobaru" stop, and it's a short walk from there.
Official Website
Official Website (Japanese)