Nara Pref. Keyhole-shaped mound

Suyama Kofun

LocationNara Pref.
ShapeKeyhole-shaped mound
Mound length220 m
PeriodLate 4th–early 5th c.

Overview

220m mound in Koryo Town — the largest in the Umagami group. Features triple moats and is the centrepiece of Umagami Hills Park.

Finds & research

Multiple surveys by Hiraka Town Board of Education and the Kashihara Archaeological Research Institute (national historic site 1958). The mound structure including the ritual protrusion (tsukuridashi) has been documented in detail. Finds around the tsukuridashi: ritual wooden implements, haniwa (water-bird-shaped, house-shaped, cylindrical, morning-glory-shaped), and pottery. The triple-moat structure is confirmed. Water-bird haniwa (interpreted as cormorant or swan) illustrate the symbolic role of birds in funerary ritual. Displayed at the Mami Ryokyukan Guidance Center.

Two views on the occupant

Archaeological view
Occupant unknown. The largest in the Umagami group (220m). Features triple moats. Famous for its house-shaped and shield-shaped haniwa.
Imperial Household Agency view
Not managed by IHA. Administered by Koryo Town.

Field notes

Open to the public as Umagami Hills Park. Also famous for seasonal flower displays.

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Sources

広陵町教育委員会Wikipedia

Related kofun

Hashihaka Kofun (280m) Nishitonozuka Kofun (230m) Higashitonozuka Kofun (139m) Andonzan Kofun (242m) Shibuyamukaiyama Kofun (300m) Kurozuka Kofun (130m)
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