Nara Pref. Tumulus cluster

Niizawa Senzuka Kofun Group

LocationNara Pref.
ShapeTumulus cluster
Mound length50 m
PeriodLate 5th–6th c.

Overview

A group of approximately 500 kofun in Kashihara City — a National Historic Site with some National Treasure artifacts. The late 5th–6th century cluster tombs are world-famous for the exotic finds from Tomb No.126: glass vessels and gold ornaments linked to the western end of the Silk Road. Key evidence for Japan's participation in ancient international exchange. Finds displayed at the Kashihara Archaeological Institute Museum.National Historic Site (1976). The National Treasure finds from Tomb No.126 are displayed at the Kashihara Archaeological Institute Museum. About 10 min by car from Kintetsu Kashiharajingu-mae Station, or ~20 min walk from Kintetsu Oshimi Station. Mounds are spread across hillside terrain; a guidemap is recommended. A prior visit to the Kashihara Archaeological Institute Museum deepens understanding.

Finds & research

Tomb No.126: glass bowl (Sasanian Persian type), gold earrings with pendants, gold finger ring, bronze mirrors, iron implements (National Treasures). Other tombs: Sue ware, Haji ware, iron implements, bronze mirrors, beads.

Two views on the occupant

Archaeological view
A cluster of approximately 500 burial mounds in Shirakashi-cho, Kashihara City, dated to the late 5th–6th centuries. A mix of keyhole, round, and square mounds densely distributed on hillside slopes. The most famous is No.126, which yielded internationally significant "exotic" artifacts — glass bowls and gold earrings with pendants linked to western/central Asia — now designated National Treasures. These are interpreted as Silk Road trade items, making them key evidence of 5th-century international exchange in East Asia.
Imperial Household Agency view
Not designated by the IHA. Designated a National Historic Site in 1976. Grave goods from Tomb No.126 are National Treasures.
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Sources

橿原市教育委員会奈良県立橿原考古学研究所文化庁Wikipedia

Related kofun

Toya Misanzai Kofun (138m)
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