Saitobaru Burial Mounds

The Saitobaru Burial Mounds in Saito City, Miyazaki Prefecture, represent one of Japan's most significant ancient archaeological sites. Constructed between the late 3rd century and the 7th century, this vast complex contains 319 tombs consisting of 31 keyhole-shaped mounds, 2 rectangular tombs, and 286 circular mounds. The site was designated a National Historical Site in 1952 and covers an expansive area measuring 2.6 kilometers east to west and 4.2 kilometers north to south.

The site is notable as the only place in Japan where burial mounds spread across tableland have retained their original shape and design, and in May 2018, it became the first Japan Heritage site in Miyazaki with a burial mound theme. The two most prominent structures are the Mesahozuka and Osahozuka mounds, each measuring approximately 176 meters in length and believed to be the tombs of rulers who governed southern Kyushu in the early 5th century. Osahozuka is distinguished as the largest scallop-shaped tomb in all of Japan, while Mesahozuka is the largest keyhole-shaped mound in the Kyushu region.

Visitors can explore the Oni-no-Iwaya tomb, a unique round mound with double moats that is the only burial structure in the complex open to the public. According to local legend, this tomb was built overnight by a demon who fell in love with the princess Konohana Sakuyahime. The site features a 4-kilometer walking path called the Kiki no Michi that connects places of historical interest related to ancient Japanese mythology documented in the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki chronicles.

The burial mounds are renowned as one of Miyazaki's premier flower-viewing destinations. In spring, approximately 2,000 cherry trees bloom alongside 300,000 rapeseed flowers, creating dramatic pink and yellow landscapes. Summer brings a million sunflowers, while autumn features three million cosmos flowers. The annual Saito Kofun Matsuri takes place on the first weekend of November, featuring a procession of around 800 participants in ancient attire carrying torches for a spectacular fire festival. Free bicycle rentals are available for exploring the grounds, and cycling routes accommodate all fitness levels.

To reach Saitobaru from Miyazaki Airport, take a train to Sadowara Station (approximately 30 minutes), then a bus to Saito Bus Center (30 minutes), followed by a 10-minute taxi ride. By car from Miyazaki city, follow Route 219 for about 40 minutes. From the Higashi Kyushu Expressway, exit at Saito IC and drive approximately 10 minutes following signage to the site.