Overview

• On July 24 the Nara Prefectural Kashihara Archaeological Institute announced the discovery of a tile-paved raised platform at Heijō-kyō’s southern perimeter that spans about 60 meters when combined with last year’s survey.
• The 45-centimeter-wide, 30-centimeter-high earthen mound is covered in flat tiles, fist-sized stones and fragments of Nara-period pottery.
• Pillar foundation slots found east of the paved structure and ink-inscribed pottery fragments bearing “寺” and “仏” suggest a temple precinct.
• The local place-name “Sogouji” was previously linked only to a medieval temple, making this the first evidence of a Nara-period religious site in the area.
• Researchers are analyzing drainage channels and base structures and will reveal comprehensive results at a public site briefing on July 27.