An Early Kofun-period square-fronted, square-backed mound in Nada, Kobe, important for understanding the early kofun of the Osaka Bay coast and wide-ranging exchange.
Finds & research
The pit-style stone chamber yielded 12 bronze mirrors (including seven triangular-rimmed deity-and-beast mirrors) and iron weapons and tools. The finds are designated Important Cultural Properties.
Official status & archaeological view
Official status
A National Historic Site.
Archaeological view
A 98m square-fronted, square-backed mound (95m in Kobe City’s short guide). The city’s regional plan dates it to the late 3rd century. Excavation began in fiscal 1985; mirrors including triangular-rimmed deity-and-beast mirrors were found in fiscal 1993. The rear pit-style stone chamber yielded 12 bronze mirrors and numerous iron objects. The Kobe City Archaeology Center notes that, together with Otomezuka and Higashi-Motomezuka, it is known as the grave of one of the protagonists of a tragic love legend.
Field notes
Maintained as a park; check Kobe City's current guidance, including display information.