| Location | Nara Pref. |
|---|---|
| Shape | Round mound |
| Mound length | 23 m |
| Period | Late 7th c. |
| World Heritage | Asuka-Fujiwara (UNESCO, inscribed 2026) |
Small round mound (23m diameter) in Asuka Village, Nara. The 1972 discovery of its vivid colored murals was hailed as the greatest archaeological find of the Showa era, sparking a nationwide kofun boom. The National Treasure murals depict the Four Guardians, star charts, and elegantly dressed court figures. The adjacent Takamatsuzuka Mural Museum (free admission) displays the restored murals and excavation finds.The deterioration of the murals became a major cultural issue, leading to full dismantling of the stone chamber in 2007–2010. The murals are now stored and undergoing restoration at the Takamatsuzuka Mural Museum. Together with Kitora Kofun, it forms the "Two Great Asuka Mural Tombs." About 20 min walk from Kintetsu Asuka Station; also a highlight of the Asuka Village cycling course. Inscribed in July 2026 as a component of the UNESCO World Heritage site "Ancient Capitals of Asuka and Fujiwara."
1972 emergency excavation confirmed the stone chamber and murals. Chamber constructed of carved tuff. Finds include gilt-bronze fittings, iron mirrors, Sue ware, and lacquered wood objects. The murals are National Treasures.