Ōyasuba Kofun, Ancient burial mound complex in Kōriyama, Japan
Ōyasuba Kofun is a burial mound complex containing five mounds, with the largest measuring around 83 meters in length and shaped like two connected rectangles. The site spreads across a wide area and displays how ancient Japanese burial sites were constructed and organized.
The site was created in the second half of the 4th century as a burial place for the Japanese elite. Archaeological investigations between 1996 and 1998 uncovered swords, spears, and jewelry that reveal the importance of this place in ancient society.
The discovery of red-colored Sue ware pottery within the burial chambers indicates specific ceremonial practices of the ancient Japanese elite society.
The site is located within Ōyasuba Historic Park and can be reached on foot. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for open ground that can become muddy in wet weather.
The largest mound contains a burial chamber with a clay floor that houses a preserved wooden coffin. This is a rare example of organic remains surviving from this early period.
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