Scallop-shell keyhole mound (~86m) in Sakurai City — a National Historic Site (1982). Late 4th–early 5th century, celebrated for yielding Japan's oldest shield-bearing human-form haniwa. Located ~1km southeast of the Makimuku group, it forms part of the northern Sakurai City kofun cluster alongside Hashihaka and the Tamakiyama group. A fine example of the scallop-shell form with stone paving, haniwa, and moat.
Finds & research
Shield-bearing human-form haniwa (currently Japan's oldest), cylindrical haniwa, shaped haniwa. Stone paving and surrounding moat.
Two views on the occupant
Archaeological view
Scallop-shell keyhole mound ~86m long in Chihara, Sakurai City. Late 4th–early 5th century. Rear circle ~60m diameter, short front section ~26m (characteristic scallop form). Stone paving, haniwa, and moat confirmed. The primary academic significance is the discovery of Japan's oldest shield-bearing human-form haniwa (tatemochiningen-gata haniwa) — figurines of armed figures holding shields, a key resource for understanding protective/ritual functions of kofun haniwa. This mound's example is currently the oldest known, making it a benchmark site for haniwa studies. Located ~1km southeast of the Makimuku group, it documents the evolution of burial culture in Yamato from the late Early to early Middle Kofun period.
Imperial Household Agency view
Not designated by the IHA. Designated a National Historic Site in 1982. Managed by Sakurai City.
Field notes
About 15 min walk from JR Makimuku Station (Mahoroba Line). Easily combined with Hashihaka Kofun (~1km northwest) and the Tamakiyama group (~500m southeast) on a Makimuku area tour. The Sakurai City Buried Cultural Property Center displays explanations and replicas of the shield-bearing haniwa.