Mishima Jiikonbo Kofun Cluster, Ancient burial mounds in Mishima Island, Japan.
Mishima Jiikonbo Kofun Cluster is a group of about 200 burial mounds constructed using natural basalt stones along the Yokoura coastline. The site stretches from Mount Takami to Mount Bandai in Honmura, creating a substantial collection of ancient tombs.
The burial mounds were built in the 8th century as part of local burial practices specific to this coastal region. Excavations revealed horizontal burial chambers that contained valuable items from that era.
The burial structures reveal connections between this coastal area and other regions of Japan during the ancient period. The objects found suggest trade relationships and cultural exchanges that shaped local practices at that time.
The site is located about 45 kilometers from Hagi city and can be reached through local routes. The main artifacts discovered from excavations are displayed at the Hagi Museum and the Yamaguchi Prefectural Archaeological Center.
What sets these mounds apart is their construction method: they were built entirely from basalt stones gathered from nearby beaches without any soil or earth added. This makes them structurally different from typical kofun sites elsewhere.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
