Shiroishi Inariyama Kofun, Ancient burial mound in Shiroishi, Japan.
Shiroishi Inariyama Kofun is an ancient burial mound featuring a traditional keyhole shape and extending several meters in length. The structure comprises a raised earthen platform with a burial chamber positioned behind it, used for interments of the time.
The mound was built between the 4th and 5th centuries and marks a turning point in Japanese history. This period shows the shift from a clan-based society toward centralized governance.
The mound served as a burial place for members of the upper class, who were interred with bronze mirrors, weapons, and ornamental objects that reflected their social rank. These grave goods reveal how wealthy and influential the individuals buried here had been.
The site is accessible via marked paths and open for free exploration, though no facilities like cafes or restrooms are available on location. Visitors should wear appropriate clothing, as trails can become muddy or slippery depending on weather conditions.
Archaeological surveys have documented specialized construction techniques involving carefully stacked layers of compacted earth. This method was typical of the Kofun period and reveals how methodically the builders approached creating these monumental structures.
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