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Japan

Shirakawa Kanga ruins

Nara to Heian period administrative complex

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 Shirakawa Kanga ruins in Fukushima, Japan, are the remnants of a significant government administrative complex from the Nara to early Heian periods. The site, designated as a National Historic Site in 1984, includes the Sekiwaku Kanga and Kariyado temple ruins. The complex reflects administrative changes following the Taika reforms and the establishment of the Ritsuryō system in the 7th century CE. The Sekiwaku Kanga site features a rectangular layout with a moat and river, containing warehouses initially built in a stilt pillar style, later reconstructed with foundation stones and tiled roofs. The Kariyado temple, laid out in the Horyuji style, highlights the religious aspect of governance. These sites reveal insights into the administrative and religious structures of ancient Japan, indicating their central role in regional governance and tax collection.

Archaeological Features

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

Storage Structures

Warehouses

Defensive Structures

Moats

Public and Civic Structures

Administrative Buildings

Religious and Ritual Structures

Temples

Historical Timeline

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

Plan Your Visit

Details

Country
Japan
Source
Wikipedia