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Japan

Shigaraki Palace

Imperial palace ruins with Buddhist influence

Time Periods

Paleolithic

Paleolithic

Mesolithic

Mesolithic

Neolithic

Neolithic

Chalcolithic

Chalcolithic

Bronze Age

Bronze Age

Iron Age

Iron Age

Classical Period

Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Early Modern Period

Early Modern Period

Industrial Period

Industrial Period

Contemporary Period

Contemporary Period

About

The Shigaraki Palace, initially a villa built by Emperor Shōmu, evolved into an imperial palace and temporary capital of Japan in the 8th century CE. Located in Ōmi Province, now Shiga Prefecture, the site reflects a blend of political strategy and religious influence, possibly due to the emperor’s connections with Buddhist prelates. The palace was part of a larger plan to construct a monumental image of the Vairocana Buddha, showcasing the site's religious significance. However, natural disasters and financial strain led to the capital's relocation back to Heijō-kyō. Today, the Shigaraki Palace ruins are recognized as a National Historic Site, highlighting its historical and cultural importance in Japan's imperial history.

Gallery

Explore photographs of ancient structures, artifacts, and archaeological excavations at Shigaraki Palace

FileMiyamachi_Ruins01.jpg

Archaeological Features

Explore the unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

Religious and Ritual Structures

TemplesStatues

Domestic and Habitation Structures

Palaces

Historical Timeline

Journey through time and discover key events in this site's archaeological history

Plan Your Visit

Details

Country
Japan
Source
Wikipedia