Ōtorizuka Kofun, Ancient burial mound in Fujiidera, Japan.
The Ōtorizuka Kofun is a burial mound with a distinctive keyhole shape formed by circular and rectangular sections joined together. This large earthwork spans hundreds of meters and was built to honor an important member of ancient Japanese society.
This burial mound was constructed during the 5th century as part of the Furuichi Kofun Cluster in the region. It dates to the Kofun period, when such monuments reflected the power and status of the deceased and their families.
The name refers to a bird sanctuary, reflecting the site's deep connection to the natural landscapes surrounding Fujiidera. Visitors can walk around the mound and experience firsthand how these burial grounds were integrated into the ancient community.
You can reach the site by taking the train to Fujiidera Station, then walking along the marked pathways to the grounds. The mound is best explored on foot, so wear comfortable shoes since the terrain can be uneven in places.
The mound contains distinct layers from different building phases, allowing researchers to track changes in burial traditions over time. These undisturbed archaeological deposits make it a window into how funeral practices evolved among the ancient ruling class.
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