A large round mound west of Goshikizuka Kofun↗ in Tarumi, Kobe. The two mounds are preserved as one National Historic Site, allowing visitors to compare their stone paving and haniwa.
Finds & research
An estimated 320 haniwa, including finned cylindrical, morning-glory, house, and quiver forms. No stone paving; burial and grave goods unconfirmed. Some finds from Goshikizuka and Kotsubo are designated together by Kobe City.
Official status & archaeological view
Official status
Included in the National Historic Site "Goshikizuka (Sentsubo) Kofun and Kotsubo Kofun" (1921), managed by Kobe City.
Archaeological view
Kobe City’s conservation plan describes a two-tiered round mound 70m across and about 8.5m high; the 2006 designation supplement gives 67m. The haniwa stood on the summit and terrace and included finned morning-glory forms. It is dated approximately to the late 4th century, while its occupant remains unknown.
Field notes
About five minutes from Sanyo Railway Kasumigaoka Station to the Goshikizuka Museum. Kotsubo Kofun is viewed from its perimeter. The park is free and opens 9:00–17:00 (last admission 16:30), closed Mondays and on other designated days.