A National Historic Site known for the House-Pattern Mirror, which depicts four buildings.
Finds & research
The 1881 excavation yielded about 36 bronze mirrors, including the House-Pattern Mirror, as well as beads, stone bracelets, iron swords, iron blades, bronze arrowheads, and stone imitations of tools, among other items.
Official status & archaeological view
Official status
It is designated a National Historic Site.
Archaeological view
An approximately 112m keyhole mound at Samita, Kawai, with a rear diameter of about 60m, built in the late 4th century. In 1881 it yielded numerous bronze mirrors, including the House-Pattern Mirror, together with beads, stone objects, and other grave goods.
Field notes
Part of the excavated assemblage is designated an Important Cultural Property as "Excavated Articles from Samita Takarazuka Kofun and Others, Nara Prefecture" (Agency for Cultural Affairs). Follow posted guidance when visiting.