What other travelers are saying about Hirasawa Kanga Ruins
Interesting place of historical significance...a reconstruction of a 1000 year old government office. (Bureaucracy as a system has proved quite resilient and thrives no matter what. 😅)
Lots of grassy space. To sit and picnic on a warm day. A trail to hokyo-san runs from the area.
The Hirasawa Kanga Ruins are ancient archaeological remains located in Iwate Prefecture, Japan, dating back to the Jomon period (approximately 14,000-300 BCE). These prehistoric settlement ruins showcase pit dwellings, pottery fragments, and stone tools that provide insight into early Japanese civilization and hunter-gatherer lifestyle.
To reach Hirasawa Kanga Ruins, take the JR Tohoku Main Line to Hiraizumi Station, then transfer to local bus or taxi for approximately 15 minutes. By car, the ruins are accessible via National Route 4, with parking available on-site. The nearest major city is Ichinoseki, about 30 minutes away by car.
Hirasawa Kanga Ruins are typically open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily, with last admission at 4:30 PM. Admission fees are usually around 300-500 yen for adults and 150-250 yen for students. The site may be closed on certain national holidays and during winter months due to weather conditions.
Visitors to Hirasawa Kanga Archaeological Site can explore reconstructed Jomon period pit dwellings, view excavated pottery and stone tools, and walk through preserved settlement foundations. The site features informational displays about prehistoric Japanese culture, seasonal archaeological workshops, and guided tours explaining ancient daily life and hunting practices.
The best time to visit Hirasawa Kanga Ruins is during spring (April-May) and autumn (September-November) when weather is mild and comfortable for outdoor exploration. Summer offers longer daylight hours but can be humid, while winter visits may be limited due to snow. Cherry blossom season in April provides beautiful scenery around the archaeological site.
