Kutsukawa Kurumazuka Kofun, Ancient burial mound in Joyo, Japan
The Kutsukawa Kurumazuka Kofun is a keyhole-shaped burial mound that stretches approximately 107 meters in length. The front section forms a square platform while the rear portion is circular, creating the distinctive silhouette typical of its kind.
This burial mound was constructed during the middle Kofun period in the early 5th century. It gained designation as a National Historic Site in 1922, with its protected area expanded in subsequent decades.
The site reveals how ancient Japanese people honored their dead through clay figures and stones transported from distant regions. These objects show the craftsmanship and beliefs of that time period.
The mound is now part of Kurumazuka Park and can be reached on foot from nearby stations. Plan for a leisurely walk to reach it, especially on warm days when shade would be welcome.
The interior of this burial mound has never been excavated and remains untouched to this day. This preservation of the original contents leaves open the question of what grave goods might lie within.
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