Saitobaru kofungun


Saitobaru kofungun is a group of three hundred thirty three kofuns or tumuli in Saito city, Miyazaki Prefecture, Japan. This is one of the largest kofun groups in Japan, and the largest group in Kyushu situated on a 70-meter hill composed of diluvium. It is located within the Saitobaru-SugiyasukyĹŤ Prefectural Natural Park.

General description

The Saitobaru kofungun or Burial Mounds were designated by the national government as a special historical site in 1952. The majority of the tumuli in Saitobaru have yet to be excavated and many remain wrapped in a veil of mystery. There are 311 elevated mounds,, unique to ancient Japan, 1 Houfun and 10 Yokoana kofuns and 12 underground kofuns, the last being peculiar to southern Kyushu. The first scientific excavation was made in 1912. In 1952, Saito City Museum was founded, which was later changed to Miyazaki Prefectural Saitobaru Archaeological Museum.

Important Kofuns

Osahozuka and Mesahozuka

It was the only sideway kofun which was completely encircled by an earthwork. This is unique and reminds one of kofuns in China.