Was this the final resting place of a local leader? We are standing before the Nakatsuka Kofun. It is located in Fukuoka.
This ancient burial mound dates back to the 7th century. It was constructed during the Kofun period. The Nakatsu Kofun may have been the tomb of a leader. He may have headed a seafaring group.
The site is also known as Katsuma Myojin.
Historical records suggest some interesting facts about the Nakatsuka Kofun. In 1994, the front garden area revealed the ancient tomb. Although the mound’s exact size and shape are unclear due to shrine construction damage, a stone chamber from a pit tomb and associated burial goods were discovered.
Long ago, three shrines stood here. They were called Okitsu-gu. Nakatsu-gu and Sokotsu-gu. Each enshrined a goddess. Nakatsu Kofun is linked to this ancient religious landscape.
The name Katsuma has several theories. During Emperor Chuai’s reign, Empress Jingu prayed for victory. She was on a Korean conquest. After her success, she gave praise to her soldiers. The horse she rode was so happy that it pranced wildly. It was named Katsuma.
The Nakatsuka Kofun offers a glimpse into Fukuoka’s past. It connects us to the ancient leaders who once shaped this land. It reminds us of the stories that lie beneath our feet.