The largest keyhole mound in Heguri, Nara, designated a National Historic Site and preserving a megalithic chamber and house-shaped sarcophagus.
Finds & research
A horizontal stone chamber, assembled house-shaped sarcophagus, gilt-bronze-fitted horse gear, weapons, ornaments, Sue ware and other items.
Official status & archaeological view
Official status
A National Historic Site.
Archaeological view
A 60.5m keyhole mound (the Agency for Cultural Affairs designation description states ~65m), with a rear circle about 35m across and 9m high (Heguri Town; Nara Prefecture's tourism site gives about 8m) and a front about 31m wide. Built in the mid-to-late 6th century, it has a megalithic horizontal stone chamber and assembled house-shaped sarcophagus.
Field notes
About 10 minutes on foot from Kintetsu Tatsutagawa Station. The chamber is kept locked; check Heguri Town's current guidance for access.