🗺️ Shinhara - Noyama Kofun Group

In July 2017, the "Sacred Island of Munakata" and its associated heritage sites were registered as a World Heritage Site. As exchanges between Japan, the Korean Peninsula, and China flourished, the ancient powerful clan, the Munakata clan, nurtured the belief in the Munakata Three Goddesses from the local deities worshiped on Okinoshima. The tombs built by the Munakata clan are known as the "Shinbara Nuyama Kofun Group." From the 5th to 6th centuries, facing the sea that extended towards Okinoshima at the mouth of the river, there are 41 tombs distributed over an 800-meter-long terrace, including five keyhole-shaped tombs, 35 round tombs, and one square tomb. It is quite rare to find such a variety of ancient tomb types concentrated over such a long period. Additionally, in the center of the terrace, there is a keyhole-shaped tomb and a large tomb, believed to belong to a powerful figure related to the Yamato royal authority, surrounded by medium and small round tombs. These features indicate that the Munakata clan was a powerful family that navigated abroad under royal authority and conducted rituals on Okinoshima. The shapes of the keyhole-shaped tombs and the surrounding moats are well-preserved in their original state, allowing visitors to walk and enjoy the tomb group. Furthermore, there are viewing areas, and on Saturdays, Sundays, and national holidays, volunteer guides provide approximately five minutes of explanations.

Strolling through the ancient tombs of the World Heritage site. There are 41 tombs of various sizes and shapes. This location was an important point for overseas exchanges in ancient times. From the observation area, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the tombs and the sea connecting to Okinoshima.