Also known as: Yamamomo-no-Misasagi (IHA: attributed to Emperor Heizei)
Location
Nara Pref.
Shape
Keyhole-shaped mound
Mound length
253 m
Period
Early 5th c.
IHA designation
IHA-managed (no public entry)
Overview
Keyhole mound 253m (reconstructed) in Saki-cho, Nara City. Managed by the IHA as Emperor Heizei's mausoleum (Yamamomo-no-Misasagi) but archaeologically an early 5th-century construction — some four centuries before Heizei's reign. Together with Uwanabe and Konabe, it forms the largest cluster in the Saki group; double moats in good condition. Exterior viewing accessible; combined visit with adjacent Heijo Palace World Heritage site recommended.One of Japan's most cited examples of a chronologically problematic IHA attribution. The designation was formalised during the late Edo-period mausoleum project and has been upheld ever since. A major stop on the Saki group walking circuit, conveniently west of the Heijo Palace World Heritage site.
Finds & research
No excavation under IHA jurisdiction; burial goods unknown.
Two views on the occupant
Archaeological view
Large keyhole mound estimated at 253m (reconstructed length). Dated to the early 5th century; forms the core triad of the Saki group with Uwanabe (275m) and Konabe (204m). Double moats. Under IHA jurisdiction; no excavation. Archaeological date and scale consistently point to an early 5th-century Yamato chieftain rather than Emperor Heizei (9th c.).
Imperial Household Agency view
Officially designated "Yamamomo-no-Misasagi" and attributed to Emperor Heizei (r. 806–809 CE). However, the mound is archaeologically dated to the early 5th century — some 400 years before Heizei's reign — making this one of the most chronologically problematic IHA attributions. The majority of researchers strongly dispute this designation.[IHA Visiting Info] Address: 奈良県奈良市佐紀町 / Access: （バス停）平城宮跡・遺構展示館から徒歩約5分 / Hours: 原則、8時30分～17時 (open year-round in principle). Stamp storage: 畝傍陵墓監区事務所.