Sakitama Kofun Park

Sakitama Kofun Park is an archaeological park in Gyoda with several ancient burial mounds scattered across a grassy landscape. A system of walking paths connects eight different kofun structures from the 5th century, nestled into the natural surroundings.

The Inariyama burial mound revealed a gold-inscribed iron sword in 1968, providing concrete evidence about the rulers and lineage of the Yamato period. This discovery was a turning point in how we understand the structures and organization of that ancient society.

The museum displays bronze mirrors, weapons, and armor from ancient times that show how people buried and honored their dead. These objects help us understand the value and power that rulers held during that period.

The best time to visit is during early mornings or late afternoons when fewer people are around and the light is better for seeing the mounds. The park has well-marked paths suitable for different mobility levels, with shaded areas and benches positioned throughout the route.

Visitors can participate in hands-on workshops where they shape their own haniwa terracotta figures using traditional methods and then let them dry for a month. These clay figures were originally placed on the burial mounds to serve as companions and protectors for the deceased in the afterlife.

Location: Gyoda

Inception: April 1, 1976

Part of: 100 Best Historical Parks in Japan, 100 Best Urban Parks in Japan

Website: https://sakitama-muse.spec.ed.jp/%E3%81%95%E3%81%8D%E3%81%9F%E3%81%BE%E5%8F%A4%E5%A2%B3%E5%85%AC%E5%9C%92

GPS coordinates: 36.12833,139.47944

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:41