Unearthed during residential construction in 1973, what secrets does this ancient mound hold? Welcome to the Tanabataike Kofun. This round burial mound dates back to the early Kofun period in the 4th century. It is located in Fukuoka Prefecture. Specifically, it resides in the Kasuya District of Shime Town.
Tanabataike Kofun is the largest round burial mound in the Kasuya area. Its diameter reaches 29 meters. The mound stands 3.7 meters tall. Around the mound is a 3.5-meter-wide moat. This adds to its impressive scale.
The Tanabataike Kofun is not just a pile of earth. It is a window into the past. The main burial chamber is a pit-style stone room. It is made from stacked river stones. Inside this chamber, a wooden coffin was found.
Here is a fascinating detail. The coffin’s short side was buried in the ground. This unique feature sets it apart. Inside this coffin rested the remains of a woman. She was between 40 and 50 years old.
Around her, grave goods were discovered. These included small bronze mirrors. Also found were Koto-pillar-shaped stone products. Swords and jewels accompanied her. These artifacts tell a story of status. They hint at connections to the Kinai region.
The Tanabataike Kofun forms a key part of the Umi River basin’s ancient burial sites. Nearby is the Koshoji Kofun. It is another significant keyhole-shaped tomb. Together, they paint a picture of ancient power. These burial sites show cultural development in the area.
In 1975, the Tanabataike Kofun became a designated historical site. In 1977, it was developed as a park. Later excavations revealed more of the surrounding moat. Today, Tanabataike Kofun is accessible to all. It is a place to reflect on history.
You can reach it by taking the Nishitetsu bus. Get off at the Tabuku bus stop. From there, it is a 10-minute walk. As you stand here, consider the woman buried within Tanabataike Kofun. Imagine the rituals. Envision the world she knew. This ancient mound connects us to her story. It connects us to the story of Japan.