Hyogo Pref. Round mound

Kotsubo Kofun

LocationHyogo Pref.
ShapeRound mound
Mound length70 m
PeriodLate 4th c.
DesignationNational Historic Site

Overview

A large round mound west of Goshikizuka Kofun (id:581) in Tarumi, Kobe. The two mounds are preserved as one National Historic Site, allowing visitors to compare their stone paving and haniwa.

Finds & research

An estimated 320 haniwa, including finned cylindrical, morning-glory, house, and quiver forms. No stone paving; burial and grave goods unconfirmed. Some finds from Goshikizuka and Kotsubo are designated together by Kobe City.

Two views on the occupant

Archaeological view
Kobe City’s conservation plan describes a two-tiered round mound 70m across and about 8.5m high; the 2006 designation supplement gives 67m. An estimated 320 haniwa stood on the summit and terrace, including finned cylindrical and morning-glory forms, house-shaped and quiver-shaped haniwa. Unlike Goshikizuka, it had no stone paving. It is dated approximately to the late 4th century, while its burial facility and occupant remain unknown.
Imperial Household Agency view
Not designated by the IHA. Included in the National Historic Site "Goshikizuka (Sentsubo) Kofun and Kotsubo Kofun" (1921), managed by Kobe City.

Field notes

About five minutes from Sanyo Railway Kasumigaoka Station to the Goshikizuka Museum. Kobe City’s plan keeps the Kotsubo mound closed to entry and provides for viewing it from outside. The park is free and opens 9:00–17:00 (last admission 16:30), closed Mondays and on other designated days.

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Sources

神戸市 史跡五色塚古墳・小壺古墳整備基本計画 第3章神戸市 同整備基本計画 第10章(小壺の見学方針)神戸市 国指定史跡 五色塚古墳・小壺古墳神戸市 五色塚古墳館 利用案内文化庁 文化遺産オンライン 五色塚古墳・小壺古墳

Related kofun

Mausoleum of Emperor Junnin Goshikizuka Kofun (194m) Otomezuka Kofun (70m) Nishi-Motomezuka Kofun (98m) Higashi-Motomezuka Kofun (80m) Gyojazuka Kofun (100m)
← Minezuka Kofun Kuwansuzuka Kofun →