Kurumazuka Kofun, Ancient burial mound in Hofu, Japan
Kurumazaka Kofun is an ancient burial mound with a distinctive keyhole shape, where a rectangular front section connects to a circular rear portion extending about 107 meters in total length. The structure sits within a surrounding moat about ten meters wide, with remaining earthwork visible along its western and southern edges.
The Kurumazuka Kofun dates to the late 4th century during the middle Kofun period, when powerful regional leaders controlled different areas of Japan. These monumental tombs served as symbols of a leader's strength and wealth during this time.
The stones covering the mound's surface came from distant regions like Tokushima and Hyogo, showing that the person buried here had access to resources from across the country. This kind of distant sourcing reflected the power and reach of important leaders in that era.
The burial mound is accessible and easy to locate with clear bearings once you arrive at the site. Wear sturdy footwear since the ground can be uneven, and plan your visit during warmer months for better visibility of the mound's details.
The internal burial chamber of this monument has never been archaeologically excavated and remains sealed, meaning it may still hold artifacts and evidence from the Kofun period. This undisturbed state makes it special among other investigated kofun structures.
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