Saito Kofun Group (西都原古墳群)

Flow of the course

About this spot

A nationally designated special historic site with over 300 ancient mounds scattered across a plateau overlooking the Hitotsuse River. The landscape of large and small burial mounds dotted with green turf is found nowhere else, and in spring the plateau is blanketed with rapeseed blossoms and cherry blossoms, while in autumn cosmos flowers create a stunning collaboration of mounds and flowers. The Oninokutsu Kofun, ringed by earthen walls, allows you to enter the stone chamber itself and experience ancient stonework up close—a precious opportunity. The Osakahotezuka and Mesakahotezuka mounds, nestled among sacred groves, rank among the largest in Kyushu, and their magnitude is overwhelming even from a distance. Walk leisurely through this center of ancient Hyuga, feeling the breeze.

Tips

The plateau is very expansive, so it's efficient to drive while exploring key areas such as around the Oninokutsu Kofun. There are few shaded spots, so don't forget a hat and water. Parking can be congested on flower-viewing weekends, so starting your walk in the morning is recommended.

Best time to visit

Approximately 1 hour. The soft morning light beautifully highlights the ridgelines of the burial mounds.

Access & map

4941-1 Miyake, Saito City, Miyazaki Prefecture 881-0005