Kōrokan Historical Museum

The Kōrokan Historical Museum interprets the archaeological remains of the Kōrokan - the ancient guesthouse complex in Hakata, Fukuoka. The site and museum focus on material culture from the Nara and Heian periods and regional diplomatic contacts.

Exhibition rooms display artifacts recovered from excavations such as pottery, roof tiles and everyday objects that illuminate life at the Kōrokan. The adjacent archaeological area exposes foundation traces and layout patterns so visitors can see building plans and construction evidence in situ.

The Kōrokan was a state-established guesthouse and reception complex used to host foreign envoys and official visitors during the Nara and Heian periods. Modern archaeological work at the site has recovered structural remains and artifacts that the museum interprets for the public.

Situated in the Hakata area of Fukuoka City, Fukuoka Prefecture on Kyushu island, the museum and site lie within the urban fabric of Hakata and are part of the city’s historical-archaeological attractions.

• Collections: Displays material from excavations that interpret the function of the Kōrokan as a state guesthouse for foreign envoys and official visitors during the Nara and Heian periods.
• Access: Located within the Hakata area of Fukuoka City, the site is accessible from central Hakata and is typically visited as part of local heritage tours.

What to See #

• Archaeological site: The on-site archaeological area preserves exposed foundation traces and excavation trenches from the Kōrokan complex, showing building layouts and recovered roof tile patterns.
• Museum exhibition: Permanent exhibition galleries present artifacts recovered from the Kōrokan excavations, including pottery, roof tiles and other everyday objects from the Nara and Heian periods.