Keyhole mound 154m in Daianji, Nara City. National Historic Site. Situated in the eastern part of Nara City away from the Saki group; a large mid-5th-century mound interpreted as the tomb of a chieftain of the eastern Nara basin. House-shaped and canopy-shaped figural haniwa recovered. The adjacent Daianji Temple (one of the seven great Nara-period temples) adds a layered ancient history dimension.The name "Sugiyama" (cedar mountain) likely derives from cedar trees once growing on the mound. As a non-IHA national historic site, systematic academic excavation is continuously possible. Nearest access: ~15 min. by bus from JR or Kintetsu Nara Station.
Finds & research
Stone paving, cylindrical haniwa, house-shaped haniwa, and canopy-shaped figural haniwa recovered.
Two views on the occupant
Archaeological view
Keyhole mound 154m; rear circle 80m diameter, front section 106m wide. Three-tier construction with double moats. Dated mid-5th century. Stone paving, cylindrical haniwa, and figural haniwa (house-shaped, canopy-shaped) recovered. Mound form and scale suggest a sovereign or senior chieftain. Located in eastern Nara City (Daianji district), forming a separate cluster from the Saki group. Occupant unknown.
Imperial Household Agency view
Not managed by the IHA. National Historic Site (1976). Managed by the Nara City Board of Education. No IHA designation; academic investigation possible.