Myōkensan Kofun, Ancient burial mound in Imabari, Japan
Myōkensan Kofun is a burial mound roughly 56 meters long with a distinctive keyhole shape located in Imabari. The site features two separate underground chambers carved into the granite bedrock, each containing burial goods from ancient times.
This burial mound dates to the early Kofun period, an era when such monumental earthen mounds served as graves across Japan. Excavations conducted between 1990 and 1993 uncovered artifacts that helped researchers understand the burial practices and daily life of that time.
The shape and layout of this burial site show how ancient people honored their dead and what objects they believed were needed in the afterlife. The way the chambers were constructed reveals who held power and status in that society.
The site is within walking distance from Onishi Station on the Yosan Line and is reasonably accessible in Imabari. Wearing comfortable shoes is recommended, and visiting during daylight hours helps you see the mound and surrounding landscape clearly.
One chamber held a complete Chinese bronze mirror, a rare object showing how far trade connections reached in that era. This precious mirror was likely a valuable possession placed in the grave alongside the deceased.
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