About
In the rural areas of Hotoda-machi and Ide-machi in Takasaki City, Gunma Prefecture, there stand three large ancient burial mounds that have withstood the passage of time. These are known as the Ide Futagoyama Kofun, Hachimanzuka Kofun, and Yakushizuka Kofun, collectively referred to as the Hotoda Kofun Group. These keyhole-shaped burial mounds served as the resting places for powerful local clans about 1,500 years ago, each boasting a mound length of approximately 100 meters. Surrounded by vast double moats, it is said that many haniwa clay figures were arranged around them. (city.takasaki.gunma.jp)
The Hachimanzuka Kofun underwent preservation and restoration work over the four years from 1996 to 1999. Fukiishi (covering stones) were applied to the slopes of the burial mound and the island in the inner moat, and a facility displaying a stone coffin was installed in the rear circular section. On the inner embankment, there is an area where 54 haniwa figures of people and animals are arranged, called the "figurative haniwa array zone." Cylindrical haniwa also encircle the mound top and the island in the moat. (city.takasaki.gunma.jp)
The Ide Futagoyama Kofun was maintained using methods that altered the original shape of the mound as little as possible. Cosmos flowers are planted in the moat of the tumulus, attracting many visitors when they are in bloom. (city.takasaki.gunma.jp)
Some of the nationally important cultural properties, such as horse trappings excavated from the Yakushizuka Kofun, are exhibited at the adjacent Kamitsuke-no-sato Museum. (city.takasaki.gunma.jp)
These burial mounds are precious heritage sites that convey the power and splendor of ancient local rulers, inspiring visitors with the romance of antiquity. These ancient mounds, nestled in the rural landscape, are places where one can sense a timeless silence and the weight of history.