A decorated tomb whose Black Tortoise mural was identified in 1983. The murals were detached from the chamber stones with their plaster layer for conservation; the chamber was then sealed and backfilled, and after provisional landscaping the mound has been open to visitors since 2016. Original murals are shown only during limited, advance-registration periods.
Finds & research
The murals comprise the Four Guardians, zodiac figures, astronomical chart, and sun and moon. Several occupants have been proposed, but none is established.
Official status & archaeological view
Official status
It is a National Special Historic Site, its murals are National Treasures, and it became a component of the World Heritage property Ancient Capitals of Asuka and Fujiwara in 2026.
Archaeological view
A two-tiered round mound, 13.8m across below, 9.4m above, and just over 4m high, dated to the late 7th–early 8th century. Its chamber bears the Four Guardians, zodiac figures, sun and moon, and one of the world’s oldest surviving scientific star charts. The occupant is unknown.
Field notes
Admission to Shijin-no-Yakata (Kitora Tumulus Mural Experiential Museum) is free. Check current guidance from the Agency for Cultural Affairs and Asuka Historical National Government Park for original-mural viewing dates and applications.