Hayatozuka

Hayatozuka is a Buddhist archaeological site in Kirishima featuring three stone pagodas and four guardian statues representing the Four Heavenly Kings. The pagodas stand on a hilltop and are accompanied by a museum displaying artifacts discovered during excavations.

The stone pagodas date to the Heian period around 800 years ago and were built to pacify the spirits of the Hayato people. This archaeological site is designated as a Historic Site of Japan and preserves important evidence from this early Buddhist period.

Each stone pagoda displays carved Buddhist figures on all four sides, showing the Buddhist cosmos and its protective deities as part of Japanese religious practice. These representations help visitors understand the spiritual beliefs that motivated the creation of this site.

The site is open year-round and the hilltop is easily accessible on foot, though some pathways become steeper as you climb. The museum space next to the pagodas provides good context for understanding the artifacts and the site itself.

The three pagodas were specifically built to pacify the spirits of a particular people group, showing their religious purpose went beyond simple construction. This connection between local history and spiritual intention makes the site particularly meaningful to visitors.