Shirotori-kofun, Ancient burial mound in Atsuta Ward, Nagoya, Japan.
Shirotori-kofun is a keyhole-shaped burial mound with a square front section and circular rear portion, measuring roughly 74 meters long. The structure sits in an urban setting where it has been partially altered by modern development over the centuries.
The mound was built in the early 6th century as a burial site for regional leaders of the Owari clan during a period of growing power. The construction reflects the wealth and influence these leaders possessed in the region at that time.
The clay figurines placed around the mound, called haniwa, reflect the craftsmanship of that era and show how people honored their deceased. These sculptures reveal beliefs about the afterlife and the status of those buried within.
The site is located about five minutes on foot from Jingu Nishi Station and is easy to reach by walking. Since it is an open archaeological site, comfortable footwear is recommended for exploring the mound.
The eastern section of the original structure was lost to urban expansion and can only be traced through historical records and archaeological documentation. This loss reflects how modern cities have gradually reshaped the landscape where ancient monuments once stood.
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