Ayamezuka Kofun, Ancient burial mound in Nishikan Ward, Japan
Ayamezuka Kofun is a keyhole-shaped burial mound from the 5th century now located within Kanzen-ji temple grounds. The structure features a circular rear section connected to a rectangular front portion, a typical design for tombs from that period.
This burial mound was built in the 5th century for an important figure of the ancient period. In 1938 it received official designation as a National Historic Site of Japan, recognizing its value to archaeology and local heritage.
The name Ayamezuka refers to the iris plants that once covered the area. Over time, this burial site became a place where Buddhist monks performed rituals, showing how sacred meanings layer upon each other.
The site is easily accessible and situated at the eastern foot of Mount Kakuda near the temple grounds. Visitors can freely explore the distinctive shape from different angles and get a clear view of the ancient structure.
During later centuries, this ancient tomb became a sacred Buddhist site where monks buried religious texts. This unexpected transformation shows how old burial grounds gained new spiritual purposes over time.
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