A rock-cut tomb group at Takaida in Kashiwara. Of 162 identified tombs, 27 carry incised images including people, horses, boats, houses, birds, and lotus flowers. Many chambers have domed ceilings, and typically about three people were buried in each, mainly in assembled wooden coffins fastened with nails. Although an immigrant-clan interpretation was formerly popular, Kashiwara City states that the current evidence is insufficient to establish it.
Finds & research
Finds include earrings, amber, jasper and glass beads, Sue ware, iron objects, a small number of horse fittings, and miniature cooking vessels. Most tombs were looted, and weapons and horse gear are particularly scarce. Twenty-two rock-cut built-in coffins have been identified in 17 tombs.
Official status & archaeological view
Official status
The official National Historic Site name is Takaida Yokoana. Part of the site was designated on March 8, 1922, and the protected area was expanded on March 6, 1990. Kashiwara City maintains it as Takaida Yokoana Park.
Archaeological view
A group of rock-cut tombs in tuff ridge slopes north of the Yamato River. A total of 162 tombs have been identified, and the actual number, including uninvestigated areas, is thought to exceed 200 by a wide margin. Sue ware places the main construction phase in the late 6th century. The identity of the buried community remains unresolved.
Field notes
Visitors can view the park tombs from outside, but entry is normally restricted. Groups of five or more can request interior access in advance, and special openings take place in spring and autumn. Group 1 lies on school grounds and cannot be visited.