The Sakafune-ishi is a massive granite stonework measuring 5.5 meters long, approximately 2.3 meters wide, and 1 meter thick, located on top of a small hill in Oka, Asuka-mura, Nara Prefecture. It weighs approximately 100 tons and features dish-like indentations on the top face that are connected by grooves. The site is part of a larger archaeological complex that includes other mysterious stone structures discovered in the area.
The exact purpose remains a mystery and subject of debate. It is believed to have been used for various purposes, including fortune-telling or as an object in a garden during the era of Emperor Saimei. The pieces of stonework are believed to be utilized for ritual ceremonies like divinations. It is assumed that they are the remains of the ritual site where some kind of religious service was performed but it has yet to be substantiated.
Evidence shows that these pieces of stonework were originally created during the era of Emperor Saimei and was in use until the Heian period for approximately 250 years. In 2000, a large-scale excavation revealed a sump water system made by gravel stones and coin-shape and turtle-shape stonework. The turtle shape stonework is made of granite measuring 2.4 meters long and 2 meters wide which was carved to form the shape of head, tail and legs of a turtle.
From Asuka Station, you can take a local bus towards Oka and get off at the Oka stop, which is about a 10-minute walk from the site. Sakefuneishi can be viewed at free of charge, though there is a charge for tours of the turtle-shaped and coin-shaped stonework. Parking is available nearby and may incur a small fee, typically around 500 yen. Many visitors rent bicycles at Asuka Station to explore the various stoneworks in the area.
