Haman Malisan Tombs

Set off with your kids to the 'Hill of the Royal Tombs of Ara Gaya' - Haman Marisan Ancient Tombs

What kind of place is Haman Marisan Ancient Tombs?

Haman Marisan Ancient Tombs is a historic site in Gaya-eup, Haman-gun, Gyeongsangnam-do, where the grand tombs of the kings and nobles of the ancient kingdom of Ara Gaya are gathered. Along low hills around 50 to 60 meters above sea level, large and small burial mounds stretch for more than 2 kilometers, offering a special experience that feels like walking through ancient times on a peaceful stroll.

Historical value and features

• This is a representative ancient tomb complex mainly built during the height of Ara Gaya, from the late 5th century to the early 6th century.
• So far, 113 tombs, with at least 184 confirmed at maximum, have been surveyed, and it is believed that more tombs may still be discovered.
• As the largest Gaya-period tomb complex in Korea, it has also been inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showing its recognized global value.
• Most of the tombs are large burial mounds for the kings and nobles of Ara Gaya, with interiors divided into multiple spaces and notable for their varied structures and refined construction techniques.
• In the 2018 excavation of Tomb No. 13, a 'cover stone carved with constellations' was discovered for the first time in a Gaya tomb, and other unique relics have also been unearthed, making the site important for the study of Gaya astronomy.

What you can enjoy at Haman Marisan Ancient Tombs

• You can see exhibits modeled after the structure of actual tombs, along with vivid artifacts such as pottery, ironware, and horse armor.
• Throughout the site, you will find explanatory signs that are easy for children to understand, as well as restored tombs, helping your kids learn about the lives and culture of ancient rulers through all five senses.
• The Ara Gaya History Pilgrimage Trail that runs through the tomb complex is a walking course where nature and historic remains come together, making it great for a walk with your kids.
• If you also visit the nearby Haman Museum and the Tomb Exhibition Hall, you can explore the culture and history of Ara Gaya in even greater depth.

Helpful tips for visitors

• Admission is free, and there is plenty of parking. You can park at Haman Museum, and there is also a free public parking lot on the opposite side of the museum.
• The museum is closed on Mondays, so keep that in mind when planning your visit.
• Since this is an outdoor historic site, it is a good idea to wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for walking.
• In spring, there is a lone cherry blossom tree and an apricot tree inside the tomb complex, and photos there turn out especially beautiful. If you are visiting with young children, parking in the museum-side lot is the closest option to the cherry blossom tree.
• The walking paths along the tombs are well maintained.

Why it is especially nice with kids

• Your family can experience a real historical site and imagine the lives and culture of ancient people.
• With a variety of outdoor exhibits and safe walking paths, your kids can run around and enjoy nature in a lively setting.
• As a precious World Heritage Site of Korea, it gives your family a meaningful chance to experience history together and learn why it matters.

"Haman Marisan Ancient Tombs is a special place where you can walk with your kids through nature, follow the traces of the old Gaya kingdom, and learn from living history. We recommend taking a slow, relaxed family stroll here and enjoying a little journey through time together."