Background

Saitobaru Burial Mounds: Ancient Tombs and Seasonal Flowers

Discover ancient mysteries and breathtaking floral displays at Saitobaru Burial Mounds, a unique historical and scenic destination in Miyazaki, Japan.

4.2

Explore the Saitobaru Burial Mounds, a vast historical site in Miyazaki, Japan, featuring over 300 ancient tombs dating back to the 4th-7th centuries. This unique landscape offers a glimpse into ancient Japan and stunning seasonal flower displays.

A brief summary to Saitobaru Burial Mounds

Local tips

  • Visit during the Saito Flower Festival in late March/early April to see the cherry blossoms and rapeseed flowers in full bloom.
  • Explore the Oninoiwaya Tumulus, where you can enter the ancient stone chamber.
  • Visit the Saitobaru Archaeological Museum to learn more about the history and significance of the burial mounds.
  • Rent a bicycle to explore the vast area and enjoy the scenic views.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Driving

    From Miyazaki City, take Route 219 north towards Nobeoka. Follow the signs to UMK Country Club, then continue on Route 219 to the Saitobaru Burial Mounds. The drive is approximately 40 minutes. Parking is available near the Konohana-kan (Guidance Center). Note that the Konohana-kan will be closed for renovations from April 1, 2024, through February 28, 2025. Parking costs are free.

  • Public Transport

    From Miyazaki Station, take a Miyazaki Kotsu Bus bound for Saito. Get off at the Saito Bus Center. From there, take a local bus or taxi to the Saitobaru Burial Mounds, which is about a 10-minute ride. Bus fare from Miyazaki Station to Saito Bus Center is approximately ¥1200-1500. Taxi fare from Saito Bus Center to the mounds is approximately ¥1000-1500.

Unlock the Best of Saitobaru Burial Mounds

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Saitobaru Burial Mounds

The Saitobaru Burial Mounds are a captivating historical site located on a 70-meter-high plateau in Saito, Miyazaki Prefecture, Japan. Designated as a Special Historical Site in 1952 and a Japan Heritage site in 2018, the area contains over 300 burial mounds (kofun) of various shapes and sizes, constructed between the early 4th and early 7th centuries. These above-ground tombs are believed to be the final resting places of ancient warriors and clan leaders, though their exact identities remain a mystery, adding to the site's allure. The Saitobaru Burial Mounds offer a unique glimpse into ancient Japanese history and culture. Keyhole-shaped, round, and square tombs dot the landscape, with the Osahozuka and Mesahozuka mounds being the largest and most prominent. Visitors can even enter the Oninoiwaya Tumulus, a round burial mound with a horizontal stone chamber. The Saitobaru Archaeological Museum provides further insights into the history and significance of the site, displaying artifacts discovered during excavations. Beyond its historical significance, Saitobaru is renowned for its stunning seasonal flower displays. In spring, cherry blossoms and rapeseed flowers create a breathtaking contrast of pink and yellow. Summer brings vibrant sunflowers, while autumn sees the plateau covered in a sea of cosmos flowers. The Saito Flower Festival, held during the cherry blossom season, features traditional performances and local food stalls. The Saito Kofun Festival in November includes a torchlight procession and ancient attire, immersing visitors in the area's rich mythology.

Popular Experiences near Saitobaru Burial Mounds

Popular Hotels near Saitobaru Burial Mounds

Select Currency