Mausoleum of Emperor Tenji

The Mausoleum of Emperor Tenji is an octagonal burial mound located in Kyoto with a traditional layout from the 7th century. The structure follows ancient Japanese building principles and is carefully maintained today.

The emperor ruled from 668 to 671 and introduced the first written legal code and a centralized administration system. These reforms became the foundation for imperial power and were later reflected in his burial monument.

The mausoleum shows how the Japanese honored and buried their emperors through specific architectural traditions. The way it was built reflects what the imperial role meant to people at that time.

The site is protected by the Imperial Household Agency and requires permission to visit. Those interested in seeing it should arrange access in advance through proper channels.

The emperor was also an accomplished poet whose works are preserved in an important poetry collection. His literary talents reveal another side of a ruler known mainly for his political reforms.