★ World Heritage Sakai, Osaka Keyhole-shaped mound

Haji Nisanzai Kofun

Also known as: Nisanzai Kofun (IHA: Higashimozuryobo sankochi)
LocationSakai, Osaka
ShapeKeyhole-shaped mound
Mound length300 m
PeriodLate 5th century
World HeritageMozu-Furuichi Kofun Group (UNESCO)

Overview

300m long (7th nationally, 3rd in Mozu group). 3-tiered construction rising to about 23m at the rear circle. As a reference site (sankochi) rather than a confirmed mausoleum, it has permitted more academic investigation than the main designated tombs. Joint surveys by Sakai City and the IHA (2004, 2010) revealed detailed mound structure. It stands at the eastern edge of the Mozu group, now within Sakai City's Naka ward.Constituent monument of the "Mozu-Furuichi Kofun Group" UNESCO World Heritage Site (2019). The "reference site" (sankochi) designation differs from a confirmed mausoleum (ryo) in that the IHA has determined there is a possibility of imperial connection without certainty. This allows slightly more academic access, making Haji Nisanzai an important case study for understanding Mozu group mound construction methods.

Finds & research

Joint IHA/Sakai City surveys (2004, 2010) confirmed three-tier construction, stone paving (fukiishi), and haniwa rows at the waist section of the rear circle. As a "reference site" (sankochi), this mound has permitted more investigation than typical designated mausolea, making it an exceptional source of archaeological data within the Mozu group. Cylindrical and figural haniwa fragments have been recovered; burial facility and grave goods remain uninvestigated.

Two views on the occupant

Archaeological view
Occupant unconfirmed. The 7th largest nationally and 3rd in the Mozu group (300m). Dated to the late 5th century, it may represent the final phase of large-scale mound construction in the Mozu group, following Daisen (early 5th c.) and Kamiishizu Misanzai. A joint survey with Sakai City in 2004 confirmed 3-tiered construction, stone paving (fukiishi), and haniwa rows at the waist of the mound.
Imperial Household Agency view
Designated as the "Higashimozu Ryobo Sankochi" (eastern Mozu reference site), associated with Emperor Hanzei. As a sankochi (reference site) rather than a confirmed imperial mausoleum, it receives slightly more flexibility for academic investigation, and joint surveys with Sakai City have been conducted.
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Sources

宮内庁堺市教育委員会UNESCO(2019)百舌鳥・古市古墳群 公式サイト

Related kofun

Daisen Kofun (525m) Kamiishizu Misanzai Kofun (365m) Gobyoyama Kofun (203m) Tadeiyama Kofun (148m) Itasuke Kofun (146m) Nagayama Kofun (100m)
← Kamiishizu Misanzai Kofun Gobyoyama Kofun →