The largest cluster of northern Omi, at Takatsuki in Nagahama, ranged on a ridge above Shiotsu Bay — Lake Biwa's northern gateway. The chiefs who ruled the lake routes lie in a line, like ancient beacons above the water.
Finds & research
From Komatsu Kofun: TLV and linked-arc mirrors, bronze arrowheads, iron goods.
Two views on the occupant
Archaeological view
A group of 132 mounds extending about 3km along the ridge east of Shiotsu Bay. The Agency for Cultural Affairs counts eight keyhole, eight square-fronted, square-backed, 79 round, and 37 square mounds, built from the beginning of the Kofun period through its 7th-century end. Nishinoyama is the largest, a keyhole mound about 90m long. Among the oldest is Komatsu, a square-fronted, square-backed mound about 60m long that yielded two mirrors, bronze arrowheads, iron objects, and pottery used in rituals.
Imperial Household Agency view
Not designated by the IHA. National Historic Site (2003).
Field notes
Nagahama City’s site brochure describes public transport from JR Takatsuki Station toward Nishino and a walking approach. The pin marks the approximate center of the group; Nishinoyama is shown separately.