Discovering the Ōzuka Kofun: Japan’s Historic Gem
The Ōzuka Kofun, found in the Jumei neighborhood of Keisen, Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan, stands as a remarkable relic from the Kofun period (250 AD to 538 AD). This ancient burial mound, discovered in 1934, was designated a National Historic Site of Japan in 1937. In 1956, its status was elevated to a Special National Historic Site.
Get your dose of History via Email
The Serendipitous Discovery
On September 30, 1934, the Ōzuka Kofun revealed itself by chance. Construction work unearthed part of the stone burial chamber, exposing a glimpse of this ancient treasure. The mound, shaped like a keyhole, originally measured 86 meters in length. It featured a circular rear portion with a diameter of 56 meters and a height of 9.5 meters. The rectangular front part spanned 60 meters in width. Sadly, previous construction projects caused significant damage, leaving only a fraction of the mound intact.
Unique Construction and Design
The Ōzuka Kofun’s design is intricate and symbolic. The tumulus was built in two tiers, alternating layers of red and black clay, and covered with fukiishi, a type of stone. A double moat once surrounded the mound, adding to its grandeur.
The burial chamber, a horizontal stone structure, boasts a stone shelf at the top of the back wall and a small window above the entrance. A house-shaped capstone covers the sarcophagus, while the floor features two depressions and stone pillows for the heads of the deceased. Interestingly, four people are believed to have been buried here. Today, the chamber remains sealed for preservation but opens to the public twice a year in spring and fall.
Vivid Mural Paintings
One of the most striking features of the Ōzuka Kofun is its vibrant murals. These paintings cover almost the entire surface of the burial chamber. They depict various images such as horses, shields, swords, bows, and geometric patterns. The artists used five out of six colors found in decorated kofun across Japan: red, yellow, green, black, and white. This use of color makes it the most colorful tomb known in Japan.
Treasures Unearthed
Excavations revealed a treasure trove of grave goods, thanks to the intact state of the burial chamber. Among the artifacts were a bronze mirror, a lapis lazuli tubular bead, wooden beads with metal inlay, earthen beads, an amber bead, and a gold item. Additionally, archaeologists found metal fittings for horse harnesses, saddles, stirrups, iron swords, arrowheads, and a large quantity of Sue ware pottery. These artifacts, now designated as National Important Cultural Properties, reside in the Kyoto National Museum.
Visiting the Ōzuka Kofun
The Ōzuka Kofun is easily accessible, located just a six-minute walk from Keisen Station on the JR Kyushu Chikuho Main Line. Nearby, the Ōzuka Decorated Kofun Museum offers visitors a chance to view displays of the chamber’s murals. The museum also features replicas of eight representative decorative tumuli, providing a comprehensive glimpse into Japan’s ancient past. The museum operates from 9:00 to 16:30, closing on Mondays and around New Year’s Day, with an admission fee of 310 Japanese Yen.
A Kaleidoscope of History
The Ōzuka Kofun, along with the Takamatsuzuka Kofun, ranks as one of Japan’s finest decorative tumuli. The name “Ōzuka” translates to “King’s grave,” fitting for a site so rich in history and artistry. Inside the mound, kaleidoscopic paintings depict circles, triangles, shields, and horses, evoking images reminiscent of the famous cave paintings of Lascaux or Altamira.
Plan Your Visit
The Ōzuka Kofun opens to the public on the third Saturdays and Sundays of April and October. To ensure a smooth visit, check the latest openings. For those who cannot visit during these times, the nearby museum offers a detailed and immersive experience.
The Ōzuka Kofun remains a captivating glimpse into Japan’s ancient history, blending artistry, architecture, and cultural significance in one extraordinary site.
Sources:
Neural Pathways is a collective of seasoned experts and researchers with a profound passion for unraveling the enigmas of ancient history and artifacts. With a wealth of combined experience spanning decades, Neural Pathways has established itself as a leading voice in the realm of archaeological exploration and interpretation.