Igenoyama Kofun, Ancient burial mound in Nagaokakyo, Japan.
Igenoyama Kofun is an ancient burial mound stretching about 130 meters in length and standing roughly 30 meters across, making it the largest of its kind in Kyoto Prefecture. The site features the characteristic shape of these early Japanese tombs, with sloping earthen walls rising from the surrounding ground.
This mound was built between the 3rd and 6th centuries during the formation of early Japan as a unified state. The period marks the Kofun era, when such large earthen tombs reflected the power and influence of Japan's ruling classes.
The mound reflects how burial sites expressed social status and power in ancient Japan, with its size indicating the high rank of the person interred here. Visiting the site shows how communities invested significant resources into honoring their leaders.
The site is easily accessible by local train and located within a cluster of other ancient burial mounds in the area. Wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking on uneven ground and paths around the mound itself.
This mound is part of a cluster of eleven burial mounds in the area, each displaying different styles of early Japanese tomb design. Walking through the group offers a rare chance to see how burial practices varied during the Kofun period.
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