築山古墳, Ancient burial mound in Oita, Japan
Tsukiyama Kofun is a keyhole-shaped burial mound consisting of a rounded rear section joined to a rectangular front portion. The entire structure stretches roughly 90 meters and is now integrated into a forested hillside.
The burial mound was constructed in the mid-5th century and held two stone coffins discovered during forestry work in 1932. This construction reflects how organized building projects were important to the local community of that time.
The mound's name refers to the artificially built-up shape that is now covered with trees. Visitors can observe the distinctive double-lobed form that shows how people of that era honored their leaders.
The site is best reached on foot, with the nearest station roughly 15 minutes' walk away. The location is relatively open to visitors but does require proper footwear due to the forested slope.
The burial contained a notable quantity of red cinnabar, a precious mineral that was used in burial rituals of the period. The amount suggests that the individuals interred here held high social standing.
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