Gosashi tomb, Ancient burial mound in Misasagi-chō, Japan
Gosashi tomb is a large keyhole-shaped burial mound in Japan built during the Kofun period. The site consists of a circular rear section and a rectangular front section that together form an imposing earthen structure from ancient times.
The tomb was built during the Kofun period, a time when such burial mounds served as monuments for powerful rulers. Research has uncovered evidence of clay decorations and artifacts that indicate its importance in early Japanese history.
The tomb reflects the craftsmanship and organizational society of the Kofun period through its distinctive keyhole layout. Walking around it, visitors can sense the scale of labor and coordination required to build such a monument.
Access to the site is controlled by the Imperial Household Agency, so check beforehand which areas are open to visitors. You can walk around the outer paths to experience the full shape and scale of the monument from different angles.
The site has yielded haniwa clay figures, which are small terracotta statues that once lined the tomb to serve as guardians or attendants. Finding these pieces reveals much about burial practices and artistic expression during the Kofun era.
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