Okunoyama Kofun, Ancient keyhole burial mound in Gyoda, Japan
The Okunoyama Kofun is a keyhole-shaped burial mound from the 6th century with a circular rear section and rectangular front portion spanning about 70 meters in total. The site sits within a cluster of similar ancient mounds connected by maintained walking paths.
This burial mound was built in the middle of the 6th century during a period when keyhole-shaped tombs were already established practices. The site gained protective status in the 20th century, beginning with recognition as a historic place and advancing to special national protection.
The clay figures found here reveal what mattered to ancient people and how they honored their dead through burial customs. Horse and shield-bearer shapes tell us about the roles and ranks that existed in that distant society.
The grounds are accessible year-round and clearly marked, allowing visitors to explore the mounds comfortably. Several neighboring burial sites are within walking distance, making it easy to visit multiple locations in one trip.
A rare middle bank protrudes from the southwestern corner, a feature uncommon in this region. The pottery vessels discovered there also display forms rarely seen elsewhere in the area.
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