Guide
The Tsumakibanda Site is a massive settlement site from the Yayoi period, located in Daisen Town, Nishimurayama District, Tottori Prefecture. Situated on hills at an elevation of 90 to 150 meters at the foot of the National Park Mt. Daisen, the site offers a panoramic view of Miho Bay (Sea of Japan). This site is a designated National Historic Site of Japan, with a scale comparable to approximately 30 Tokyo Domes. As one of the largest Yayoi-period settlements in the country, it holds immense archaeological and historical significance.
This site reveals the existence of a large-scale settlement dating back approximately 1,700 to 1,900 years to the Yayoi period. Archaeological excavations have uncovered more than 400 pit dwellings and over 500 post-hole structures, illustrating the immense scale of the community at that time. Research suggests that this site may have been the center of a significant 'Kuni' (a regional community or proto-state). The site gained widespread recognition through development discussions and is now strictly protected as a National Historic Site, with ongoing research and preservation efforts.
The greatest draw is the vast landscape dotted with the remains of ancient dwellings. The visible traces of hundreds of pit dwellings allow visitors to visually grasp the lifestyle and social structure of the people living in ancient Japan. Additionally, the view from the seaside edge (toward Yodo-e) provides a breathtaking vista of Miho Bay. The vantage point, once believed to be used for signaling with smoke-based communications, offers a sense of the strategic importance of this location in ancient times.
Tsumakibanda Site can be enjoyed throughout the year, offering a connection to nature and history. The surrounding landscape is beautiful in spring and summer, while the autumn colors add a dramatic touch to the scenery. Visiting during daylight hours is highly recommended, as it is easier to observe the structural layout of the ruins and the surrounding topography. On clear days, the view overlooking Miho Bay is exceptionally vivid and striking.
At the Tottori Prefectural Mukibanda Historic Park, various educational programs and events are held to deepen your understanding of history. For example, visitors can sometimes participate in workshops to experience the making of Yayoi-style pottery, providing a hands-on connection to ancient culture. Learning about the historical meaning behind the depressions and structures through explanations from curators can also lead to a much deeper appreciation of the site.
The site is located at the foot of the Mt. Daisen National Park, making it an excellent base for exploring the Daisen area. The surrounding region is rich in natural beauty, with stunning views of Miho Bay. The site is easily accessible by car, allowing you to easily incorporate it into a larger sightseeing itinerary through Tottori Prefecture.
As the site covers a vast, natural area, we highly recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. Since most of your exploration will be outdoors, please dress appropriately for the season. If you participate in local workshops or cultural programs, please note that cash may be required for fees. While basic information is available, please check official sources for English-language support. Please respect the historical site by treating the ruins and the surrounding environment with care.