A decorated tomb whose Black Tortoise mural was identified in 1983. The painted stones were removed for conservation, while the mound and chamber were reconstructed. Original murals are shown only during limited, advance-registration periods.
Finds & research
The murals comprise the Four Guardians, zodiac figures, astronomical chart, and sun and moon. Several occupants have been proposed, but none is established.
Two views on the occupant
Archaeological view
A two-tiered round mound, 13.8m across below, 9.4m above, and just over 4m high, dated to the late 7th–early 8th century. Its chamber bears the Four Guardians, zodiac figures, sun and moon, and one of the world’s oldest surviving scientific star charts.
Imperial Household Agency view
This is not an IHA mausoleum. It is a National Special Historic Site, its murals are National Treasures, and it became a World Heritage component in 2026. The occupant is unknown.
Field notes
Admission to the Center for Preservation of Kitora Tumulus Mural Paintings is free. Check current official guidance for original-mural viewing dates and applications.