Ōyu Stone Circles

The Ōyu Stone Circles consist of two circular formations named Manza and Nonakado, built with river stones in geometric patterns. Both sites display carefully placed stones that form a system created thousands of years ago.

These formations were created during the Jomon period and show human activity from an early age of Japanese history. Scientific excavations beginning in the 1930s uncovered numerous artifacts that confirmed the site's importance to archaeology.

The stone arrangements show how the Jomon people observed and understood their environment. The central stones appear connected to the sun's movements and reflect the knowledge of this early society.

A visitor center provides year-round access to the site with information and exhibits. The location is easy to explore on foot and pathways are clearly marked.

The larger circle, called Manza, is one of the most significant examples of its type ever discovered. The two-site arrangement shows that such formations were not isolated creations but part of a broader pattern.

Location: Kazuno

Part of: Jōmon Prehistoric Sites in Northern Japan

Website: https://city.kazuno.akita.jp/kanko_bunka_sports/bunkazai/7

GPS coordinates: 40.27165,140.80380

Latest update: December 7, 2025 10:03