Beside Kounji Temple in Muraida, Maibara, this site is designated as the mausoleum of Okinaga no Hirohime, consort of Emperor Bidatsu. The stone coffin and haniwa discovered during temple works provide evidence for considering the mound’s date alongside the mausoleum tradition.
Finds & research
A stone coffin and enclosure were found during the 1696 Kounji Temple works. Later repairs to the hall platform wall yielded many haniwa dated to around the end of the 5th century.
Two views on the occupant
Archaeological view
Maibara City reports that a stone coffin and stone enclosure were found during land clearance for rebuilding Kounji Temple in 1696. Later repairs to the temple hall platform yielded many haniwa, showing that the platform incorporates part of the ancient mound. The haniwa and house-shaped coffin are dated to around the end of the 5th century, earlier than Hirohime’s later-6th-century era. The present mausoleum appearance reflects Meiji-period work; the original mound shape and occupant remain uncertain.
Imperial Household Agency view
Managed by the IHA as the Okinaga Mausoleum, designated as the tomb of Hirohime, consort of Emperor Bidatsu. The mausoleum was arranged in the Meiji period and can be visited from the oratory.
Field notes
Worship from the oratory (IHA-managed). Near Yamatsuteru Shrine Kofun (id:626), a base for exploring the Okinaga group.