Gishiki no Iwaya, Ancient burial cave complex in Azumino, Japan
Gishiki no Iwaya is a burial complex with multiple chambers carved into the mountainside in Azumino, forming part of the extensive Hotaka Kofun burial cluster in Nagano Prefecture. The caves show how natural rock formations blend with carved modifications to create a network of burial spaces.
The site dates to the Kofun period between 250 and 538 AD, representing traditional Japanese burial practices of that era. The layout reflects architectural advances that developed during this time.
The caves connect to Japanese folklore through stories of Gishiki Hachimen Daio, a medieval outlaw whose tales remain woven into local traditions. Walking through the site, visitors sense how these narratives have shaped the region's identity.
The site is accessible by marked pathways from the main road in Azumino and sits at coordinates 36.385 latitude and 137.822778 longitude. Visitors should expect simple paths and prepare for uneven terrain.
The cave system merges natural rock fissures with skillfully carved chambers, offering rare insight into ancient Japanese engineering. This blend of natural and human-made elements sets it apart from other burial sites of the same period.
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