An early Kofun-period mound on the Gongenyama ridge in Tatsuno. Its five triangular-rimmed mirrors and special stand-shaped haniwa provide evidence for the emergence of the Kofun period in Harima.
Finds & research
Five triangular-rimmed mirrors, a wooden coffin, wooden pillow, and iron tools from the rear pit-style chamber; special stand-shaped haniwa also found at the mound.
Two views on the occupant
Archaeological view
A square-fronted, square-backed mound about 43m long on a ridge around 140m above sea level. Okayama University excavated its rear pit-style chamber in 1989 and found five triangular-rimmed mirrors. The university dates it to the mid-3rd century and highlights the coexistence of the mirrors and special stand-shaped haniwa. A wooden coffin, pillow, and iron tools are also reported. One mirror shares a mold with examples from Tsubai-Otsukayama in Kyoto and elsewhere. Tatsuno’s tourism page calls it a round-backed keyhole mound, but the excavating university and the Hyogo archaeological museum identify it as square-backed.
Imperial Household Agency view
Not designated by the IHA nor as a cultural property (no designation could be confirmed).
Field notes
Tatsuno’s tourism site describes a route into the Gongenyama group behind Oji Gongen Shrine. Check current access to the mound and chamber and any exhibition of its finds before visiting.