Located on the quiet hills of Tenri City, Nara Prefecture, stands the historically rich Emperor Keiko's mausoleum

The magnificent Emperor Keiko's mausoleum rises on the quiet hilly terrain of Shibuya-cho, Tenri City. This kofun boasts the largest scale in Japan, and its grandeur evokes a sense of the weight of time.

Ancient traces emerging from the world of mythology

Known as the Shibuya Mukaiyama Kofun, it is estimated to have been constructed in the mid-4th century. The massive mound, approximately 300m in length, exudes a mysterious atmosphere as if emerging from the ancient world of mythology.

Well-maintained moat and remaining mysteries

The surrounding moat was maintained through the funerary project at the end of the Edo period, and its scale is overwhelming. Excavated haniwa such as the ordinary cylindrical haniwa and morning glory-shaped haniwa represent the elevated technology of the Kofun period. On the other hand, the presence of the stone pillow unearthed at Shibuya and the triangular-rimmed beast-motif mirror leaves behind unresolved mysteries.

Panoramic view spot overlooking the mountains of Nara

The path that encircles the kofun also offers a scenic viewpoint overlooking the mountains of Nara. The contrast between the condensed ancient time of Emperor Keiko's mausoleum and the lush mountain scenery will offer a transcendent experience.

While contemplating the history, slowly circling this kofun allows one to feel the traces of the ancient Japanese archipelago. Nara's land may still hold many mysteries.