Discover the ancient history of Fukuoka at the Sugu-Okamoto Site, a fascinating Yayoi period cemetery and associated village situated in Kasuga, Fukuoka Prefecture. Recognized as a National Historic Site of Japan, this captivating location is believed to be the central heart of the ancient kingdom of Nakoku, a realm documented in classical historical texts like the Book of the Later Han.
As you explore the area, which has been thoughtfully developed into the Nakuni-no-oka Historical Park, you will encounter the historic remnants of a kingdom famous for its 57 CE imperial seal granted by Emperor Guangwu of Han. When you visit, step inside the park's two dome-shaped exhibition halls to view original pit graves, jar coffins, and ritual remains preserved just as archaeologists uncovered them.
Beyond the ancient burial features—including jar coffins that yielded Western Han Dynasty bronze mirrors, jade beads, magatama, and Yayoi pottery—you can learn about the site's megalithic grave relics, wooden coffins, bronze weapons, and early pit dwellings. It offers a rare, authentic look into Japan's deep past and bronze-working heritage.
What to see at Sugu-Okamoto Site
- National Historic Site believed to be the center of the ancient kingdom of Nakoku
- Two dome-shaped exhibition halls displaying excavated jar coffins and ritual remains in situ
- Artifacts discovered include Western Han Dynasty bronze mirrors, bronze weapons, and magatama
- Traces of mid-Yayoi period pit dwellings and a gneiss mold for a small bronze bell
- Site of a massive 3.6 by 2.0 meter megalith and ancient burial mound ruins
Visiting tips
Plan for a short walk to reach the park, as it is located roughly 20 minutes on foot from Minami-Fukuoka Station.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
Sugu-Okamoto Site is easy to reach on Fukuoka’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Fukuoka Mosque and Fukuoka Art Museum. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Fukuoka travel guide.
See the full Fukuoka travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.