An early keyhole mound on a hill in Ikawadani, western Kobe. Its mirror and stone bracelets inform the study of the first keyhole mounds in the Akashi area.
Finds & research
Clay-encased split-bamboo-shaped wooden coffins in both sections, plus surrounding haniwa coffins; a pictorial-band mirror, stone bracelets, and glass beads. The 268 finds are Kobe City designated cultural properties.
Two views on the occupant
Archaeological view
A mirror-handle-shaped keyhole mound about 56m long. Kobe City dates it to the early 4th century, and Akashi City Library calls it the earliest keyhole mound in the Akashi area. Kobe City’s excavation report describes clay-encased split-bamboo-shaped wooden coffins in both the rear and front sections, with haniwa coffins nearby. Finds from the rear include a distinctive pictorial-band deity-and-beast mirror, stone bracelets, and many glass beads. Akashi City Library infers a female occupant from the bracelets and absence of iron arrowheads; this remains an interpretation.
Imperial Household Agency view
Not designated by the IHA. Hyogo Prefectural Historic Site (2004); the 268 finds are Kobe City cultural properties.
Field notes
Finds are held by the Kobe Archaeology Center. Check current Kobe City guidance for access to the mound and exhibition of the finds.