Inariyama Kofun, Keyhole-shaped burial mound in Takashima, Japan
Inariyama Kofun is a burial mound shaped like a key, with a circular rear section and rectangular front portion that together span about 70 meters in length. This distinctive design was typical for tombs of high-ranking individuals with considerable influence.
This burial mound was built in the 5th century, when regional leaders constructed massive tombs to demonstrate their power and rank. The design and scale reflected the political hierarchy that shaped the region at that time.
The terracotta figures scattered around the mound reveal how people here honored their dead and what rituals mattered for the elite class. These sculptures offer a window into the religious beliefs and social structures of that era.
Visitors can reach the archaeological site by using public transportation to Takashima. Informational panels on-site explain the historical context and allow you to explore the mound's structure at your own pace.
The burial chamber held an iron sword with gold inlays that bore the name of an ancient emperor. This discovery helped archaeologists pinpoint the exact age of the mound and connect it to broader historical events.
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