Front-square/rear-square mound in Joyo City (21m preserved). Dated to mid-3rd century, one of Japan's oldest kofun; designated as a National Historic Site with artifacts as Important Cultural Properties. Nationally unique for yielding two complete copper bracelets together. Forms part of Joyo City's major ancient heritage cluster alongside Kutsukawa Kurumazuka (id:281).
Finds & research
Imitation four-beast bronze mirror, 2 complete copper bracelets (nationally unique complete pair), 1,276 glass beads, 187 jade tube beads, 8 jadeite comma-shaped beads, Shonai-style pottery. All designated as Important Cultural Properties.
Two views on the occupant
Archaeological view
Original mound shape front-square/rear-square; front section now destroyed, leaving 21m rear section (21m×19m). Mid-3rd century — among Japan's oldest kofun. Wooden coffin direct burial. Artifacts: imitation four-beast bronze mirror, 2 copper bracelets (nationwide-unique pair in perfect condition), 1,276 glass beads, 187 jade tube beads, 8 comma-shaped jade beads, Shonai-style pottery. Occupant estimated to be an early influential figure in southern Yamashiro.
Imperial Household Agency view
Not designated by the IHA. Designated as a National Historic Site in 1989; incorporated into "Kutsukawa Kofun Group" in 2016. Artifacts designated as Important Cultural Properties.
Field notes
The site is preserved and open to the public as Shibagahara Kofun Park (free). Some artifacts are exhibited at the Joyo City History and Folklore Museum. About 25 min walk from Kintetsu Terada Station.