Kabutozuka Kofun, Ancient burial mound in Iwaki, Japan
Kabutozuka Kofun is a circular burial mound measuring about 37 meters across and standing about 8 meters tall near the mouth of the Natsui River. The structure rises from flat ground and commands attention across the surrounding landscape.
The burial mound dates from the late 6th to late 7th century and received official designation as a National Historic Site in 1923. This protected status preserved it from destruction and recognized it as an important archaeological record.
The mound gets its name from its shape resembling a kabuto helmet and reveals how people in this region buried their dead. You can see the circular form clearly as you walk around it.
The mound sits about 40 minutes on foot from Kusano Station and the walk takes you through rice fields. Wear comfortable shoes and prepare for soft or damp ground conditions, especially during wetter seasons.
During construction work on the Route 6 Bypass, additional tombs and artifacts were uncovered around the main mound. These discoveries revealed that the site was part of a larger burial complex.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
