The Saitobaru area of central Miyazaki is home to one of the largest and most important concentrations of ancient burial mounds (kofun) in Japan, a vast archaeological park set among rolling grassland and woodland. Scattered across the site are more than 300 tombs built between the 3rd and 7th centuries for local rulers, ranging from small round mounds to enormous keyhole-shaped kofun over 100 metres long, now grassed-over green hills dotted across the landscape. Wandering or driving through the peaceful park among these ancient tombs — especially atmospheric at dawn or dusk, or when the site is famous for seasonal flowers like spring rape blossom and autumn cosmos — gives an evocative sense of Japan’s distant past. An on-site museum displays artefacts excavated here, including haniwa clay figures. Historic, tranquil and scenic, Saitobaru offers a unique glimpse into ancient Japan away from the usual sights.
🗓️ At a Glance
| Location | Saito, central Miyazaki |
| Hours | Park always open; museum daytime |
| Admission | Free park; museum small fee |
| Time needed | 1–1.5 hours |
| Best time | Spring & autumn flowers |
What to See
- Over 300 ancient grassy burial mounds (kofun).
- Enormous keyhole-shaped tombs over 100m long.
- Seasonal flowers — spring rape blossom, autumn cosmos.
- An on-site museum with haniwa clay figures.
Combine Your Visit
- Combine with Aya’s forest town inland.
- Pair with the Miyazaki Prefectural Museum for history.
- Read our Miyazaki overview .
Getting There
- By car: the practical way to the extensive park.
- By bus: services from Miyazaki/Saito to the site.
Tips
Explore the extensive park by car or on foot, and time your visit for the seasonal flowers — rape blossom in spring, cosmos in autumn — that famously carpet the site, especially atmospheric at dawn or dusk. Visit the on-site museum to see the excavated haniwa figures and artefacts, and combine it with inland Miyazaki’s other sights.
