Guida
The Kabayama Site is a significant archaeological site from the mid-Jomon period, located in Inase-cho, Kitakami City, Iwate Prefecture. Designated as a national historic site in 1977, the area is now well-maintained as a historical park. The most striking feature of this site is the 'stone circle' (haiseki iko), consisting of stone arrangements. The site is divided into two levels based on the terrain: the lower level features more than 32 stone arrangement structures. These arrangements are characterized by a unique style where upright stones (tateishi) are placed at one end, providing crucial clues into the rituals and spiritual beliefs of the people at that time. Additionally, the upper level contains the remains of pit dwellings, allowing visitors to feel the traces of daily life during the Jomon period.
Discovered in 1950, the site has undergone several archaeological excavations. It is situated on a plateau at an altitude of approximately 80 to 100 meters, consisting of the lower stone circle area and the upper settlement area. Some stone arrangements contain stone plates, suggesting that these sites may have served as ritualistic spaces rather than just cemeteries. The style of these stone arrangements is thought to be linked to famous Jomon sites such as the Oyu Stone Circles in Akita Prefecture. Research, including soil analysis beneath the stones, continues to deepen our understanding of the ancient lifestyle and views on life and death. It remains a vital cultural heritage site for understanding how settlements and cultures were passed down during the mid-to-late Jonic period.
The primary attraction is the collection of stone arrangements scattered across the slopes and flat areas. The unique design—featuring a single long, slender granite stone standing upright surrounded by multiple stones arranged radially—is visually captivating and thought to have served as a monument. In the upper settlement area, reconstructed pit dwellings demonstrate the housing forms of the Jomon period, offering a tangible way to learn about ancient domestic structures and living spaces. These remains are not just archaeological data but are integrated into the landscape, allowing visitors to appreciate the aesthetic beauty of ancient Japanese design.
As a historical park, the site is best visited during daylight hours to fully appreciate the stone arrangements and the layout of the reconstructed dwellings. (Note: Please check local weather conditions before visiting as the site is an open-air historical park).
The site is developed as a historical park where visitors can visually learn about the Jomon lifestyle through the reconstructed pit dwellings. By observing the precise placement of the stone circles and the shapes of the stone arrangements, you can gain a practical understanding of how people created sacred spaces thousands of years ago.
The Kabayama Site is located at the foot of the Kitakami Mountains, on the left bank of the Kitakami River. It is situated approximately 7 kilometers south of the Kitakami city center. The site is nestled within a rich natural environment, allowing visitors to enjoy a peaceful stroll while imagining the ancient landscapes of the Jomon era.
As this is a historical park, visitors are encouraged to wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain. Please follow all local signs and rules to preserve the historical integrity of the site.