Takamatsuzuka Kofun

Overview

Takamatsuzuka Kofun is a late-period kofun located in Asuka Village, Nara Prefecture, built sometime between the late 7th and early 8th centuries. This two-tiered circular mound, measuring 23 meters (lower tier) and 18 meters (upper tier) in diameter and 5 meters high, is famous for its stone chamber murals. The vibrantly colored female figures on the west wall are particularly well-known, frequently appearing in history textbooks and familiar to many. These murals offer a glimpse into the lives and culture of the aristocracy of the time, serving as invaluable historical documents. They are found on four walls—east, west, north (rear), and ceiling—painted on cut stone, overlaid with a few millimeters of plaster. The east wall depicts, from the foreground, male figures, Seiryu (Azure Dragon, one of the Four Symbols) above the sun, and female figures. The west wall is symmetrically arranged, showing male figures, Byakko (White Tiger), the moon, and female figures. Both male and female figures are depicted in groups of four, totaling sixteen individuals. The female figures on the west wall are particularly striking in their vibrant colors. Often featured in color photographs in history textbooks and elsewhere, they are nicknamed "Asuka beauties." The north wall shows Genbu (Black Tortoise) and the ceiling depicts constellations. The ceiling is decorated with circular gold leaf representing stars, connected by red lines to represent constellations. Takamatsuzuka Kofun is not only an Important Cultural Property of Japan but was also registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2017. Visit this precious kofun and immerse yourself in ancient Japanese culture.