Saio Haiji Ruins

Sainoo Haiji Ato

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A magnificent temple site with a Horyu-ji style garan layout, designated as a Special Historic Site of Japan.

Historic Sites

Tourist destination images of Saio Haiji Ruins(1)

HighlightsHoryu-ji style garan layout temple site
Designated as a Special Historic Site of Japan
Once housed a magnificent temple complex
Foundations and base stones of the Kondo and pagoda remain
Representative temple site of the Hakuhō period in the San'in region

Basic Information

Address: Tsukinoshita, Koura-cho, Tohaku-gun, Tottori Prefecture Search for tourist attractions in Tottori

Access: Approximately 40-minute walk from Urazuka Station on the JR Sanin Main Line. Alternatively, a 7-minute taxi ride. About a 13-minute bus ride from the Urazuka Station bus stop to the Saio Danchi stop, followed by a 10-minute walk. Show route

Op.Hours: Open 24 hours

Cld.Days: No days off

Fee: Free

INFO: Visits are free. However, access may be restricted due to excavation work or other research. Please contact the Kotohira Town Lifelong Learning Center "Manabi Town Touhaku" or the Kotohira Town Tourism Association in advance to check for any restrictions.

HP: https://www.town.kotoura.tottori.jp/docs/2022090900013/

Overview

The Saio Haiji ruins are the remains of a temple dating back to the late Asuka and Nara periods, located in Tsukinoshita, Koura-cho, Tohaku-gun, Tottori Prefecture. Designated as a Special Historic Site of Japan, it's believed that a grand temple complex once stood here. Excavations have revealed a Horyu-ji style garan layout, with the Kondo (main hall) to the east and the pagoda to the west. The temple site was enormous, covering approximately 40,000 square meters (160 meters east-west and 250 meters north-south). Remnants such as the foundations and base stones of the Kondo and pagoda, the lecture hall, and the middle gate still remain, making this a precious historical relic representing the Hakuhō period in the San'in region. The Saio Haiji ruins are currently utilized as a local specialty shiba (lawn grass) field, resulting in excellent preservation of the site, raising high expectations for further excavation findings. We eagerly anticipate that future research will unveil the full picture of the Saio Haiji temple. Visiting the Saio Haiji ruins offers a chance to connect with ancient history and glimpse into the lives and culture of people from long ago. Immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere and experience the romance of history.