Hirasawa Kan'ya Ruins

Overview

The Hirasawa Kan'ya ruins are the remains of an ancient government office located in Hirasawa, Tsukuba City, Ibaraki Prefecture, and designated as a national historical site. Flourishing as the local government office of Hitachi Province, Tsukuba County, from the Nara to the Heian period, it played a central role in the politics and economy of the time. Excavations have unearthed post-and-beam building sites, stone-foundation building sites, and large moat remnants, offering a glimpse into the Gun'ya of that era. The elevated granaries, known as Shozo, used to store rice collected as taxes, are particularly noteworthy, showcasing the advanced technology of the time. Three full-scale reconstructed elevated granaries are open to the public, allowing visitors to step inside. A large moat and fence lines, encircling the entire site, are also reconstructed, providing a more realistic image of the Gun'ya. The Hirasawa Kan'ya ruins offer a valuable opportunity to touch upon ancient history and learn about the life and culture of that period. Developed as a historical park, the site features walking paths and rest areas, making it a safe and enjoyable place for families. With abundant natural spots such as Mount Tsukuba and Ōike Park nearby, consider visiting them as well.