Miyakozuka Kofun, Ancient burial mound in Asuka, Japan
Miyakozuka Kofun is a square-shaped burial mound from the 6th century in Asuka, Nara Prefecture. The flat top with raised edges sits among fields and is clearly visible from the nearby kiln site.
The mound was built in the 6th century when Asuka served as the center of early imperial power. This period marked a turning point as Japan shifted from clan-based structures to centralized rule.
The burial mound shows how wealthy people of this era demonstrated their power through the size and location of their tombs. You can still see today how such structures shaped the landscape and expressed family importance.
The site is freely accessible and can be reached from the road, though access involves walking through farm paths. Best to visit early in the day when fewer farm machines are active in the area.
Excavations found objects showing how people buried their dead and what they considered valuable at that time. These discoveries help archaeologists understand how society was organized during this period.
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