Koyamada Kofun, Square burial mound in Asuka, Japan
Koyamada Kofun is a square burial mound located in the Asuka region of Nara Prefecture. Its southern edge stretches about 80 meters, with stone slabs carefully stacked along the northern and western faces.
This burial mound dates to the early Asuka period, reflecting seventh-century Japanese burial practices. Excavations in 2018 revealed later modifications to the western side, where stone slabs were removed to insert a jar burial.
The burial structure represents the architectural practices of seventh-century Japan, displaying advanced engineering through its stone construction and dimensional planning.
The mound is freely accessible for viewing from outside. As an archaeological site, visible features are limited, so it helps to approach it with an understanding of how these ancient monuments appear over time.
The stone materials and construction methods suggest a link to royal-class tombs from the same period. These subtle details hint that people of importance or their families may have been buried at this location.
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