★ World Heritage Habikino / Fujiidera, Osaka Square mound

Nishiumaduka Kofun

LocationHabikino / Fujiidera, Osaka
ShapeSquare mound
Mound length45 m
Period5th c.
World HeritageMozu-Furuichi Kofun Group (UNESCO)

Overview

A square mound (45m long) located west of Karusato Otsuka Kofun (Hakucho/White Bird Mausoleum, 200m). A 5th-century accessory mound of the main tomb. The name "Nishiumaduka" (West Horse Mound) suggests a connection to horse-related grave goods or ancient horse pastures in the area. Not IHA-managed; administered by Habikino City. A constituent monument of the Furuichi group square mound cluster.Constituent monument of the "Mozu-Furuichi Kofun Group" UNESCO WHS (2019). The southern Furuichi group includes Karusato Otsuka Kofun (Hakucho Mausoleum, 200m) and surrounding square mounds including Nishiumaduka and Higashiumaduka, forming a sub-cluster sometimes called the "Karuri kofun group." The name "umaduka" (horse mound) may also allude to ancient state-run horse pastures (maki), reflecting the Kawachi Plain's historical importance as a horse-breeding region. Research and excavation in the Furuichi group continue, with new findings on these square mounds being regularly published.

Finds & research

Excavation records are limited. Surface-collected haniwa and pottery fragments have been reported, but burial chamber details are unconfirmed.

Two views on the occupant

Archaeological view
A square mound (45m long), occupant unknown. 5th century. Located west of Karusato Otsuka Kofun (Hakucho Mausoleum, 200m), it is likely an accessory mound of that main tomb. "Nishiumaduka" (West Horse Mound) contains the character for "horse" (馬, uma), suggesting either a local tradition involving horses or the presence of horse-related grave goods. Square mounds form an important component of the accessory funerary landscape in the Furuichi group.
Imperial Household Agency view
Not managed by the IHA. Protected and managed by Habikino City. Not listed in the IHA register. Protected as a World Heritage constituent monument.
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Sources

羽曳野市教育委員会百舌鳥・古市古墳群 公式サイト

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← Mukaihakayama Kofun Jogenjizan Kofun →