Sakafuneishi Site

Sakafuneishi Site is an archaeological location in Asuka, Japan, featuring several massive granite stones with carved surfaces. The stones are positioned near one another and display grooves, flat platforms, and carefully chiseled geometric shapes.

The stone formations were created in the 7th century when Asuka served as the first permanent capital of Japan. Their exact function remains unclear, though they may have been connected to ceremonies or early astronomical observations.

The site takes its name from the shape of the largest stone, which resembles a traditional sake-pressing vessel. Visitors can observe the flat surfaces and channels whose purpose remains a subject of discussion today.

The site lies in an open area that visitors can explore on foot or by bicycle. The stones sit at varying heights, allowing people to approach closely and observe the details of the carved work.

Some of the grooves run so precisely that water could flow along their paths. The largest stone structure is estimated to weigh several tons and was likely transported and shaped without modern tools.