塚原E1号墳

Descending into the past, we find ourselves at the Tsukahara Kofun Cluster (塚原古墳群). The Tsukahara Kofun Cluster whispers tales of ancient rituals and lives lived long ago. Here, on the Tsukahara Plateau, the remains of a society’s final farewells lie embedded in the earth. Tsukahara Kofun Cluster is more than just a collection of burial mounds. It offers a glimpse into the burial practices of the Kofun period, a time spanning from the late 3rd century to the early 7th century AD. Excavations at Tsukahara Kofun Cluster have unveiled a variety of burial structures, including square ditch surrounding tombs, round barrows, and small round barrows. The most striking feature is the presence of a keyhole-shaped tomb, known as a zenpō-kōen-fun. These unique tombs are characteristic of the Kofun period and often housed powerful individuals. Imagine the ceremonies that must have taken place here as the elite members of society were laid to rest, surrounded by their possessions. Intriguingly, Tsukahara Kofun Cluster demonstrates a transition in burial practices. The presence of both square ditch surrounding tombs and round barrows suggests a shift in burial customs over time. The larger tombs, particularly the keyhole-shaped tombs, are concentrated in the southern part of the northern mound, while the smaller tombs are clustered to the north. This spatial arrangement might indicate social hierarchy within the community. One particular keyhole-shaped tomb, known as Tomb No. 1, stands out. Its stone chamber’s construction differs from other tombs in the area, and the bed inside the chamber is lower than typical Kofun-period beds. These unique characteristics suggest a distinct lineage or tradition in tomb construction. While Tsukahara Kofun Cluster offers a tangible connection to the past, much remains shrouded in mystery. The precise rituals, the social dynamics of the community, and the stories of the individuals buried here continue to intrigue researchers. A visit to Tsukahara Kofun Cluster is a journey through time. It’s a reminder of the lives lived, the societies that flourished, and the mysteries that continue to captivate us centuries later.