Guide
Toruzuka Kofun is a significant decorated tomb located in Hitachinaka City, Ibaraki Prefecture, and is considered one of the most representative sites of its kind in Eastern Japan. As a nationally designated historical site, this 7th-century keyhole-shaped mound (zenpokoen-fun) is renowned for its striking interior murals. The most captivating feature is the colorful paintings on the stone chamber walls, where red pigments (benガラ) were used to depict geometric patterns, swords, shields, and horse trappings against a white clay background. The surrounding area is maintained as a historical park, allowing visitors to observe the exterior of the mound and the scenic landscape at any time.
This tomb is believed to have been constructed in the early 7th century, during the final stages of the Kofun period. It gained prominence in 1973 following excavations that identified it as one of the first decorated tombs discovered in Japan. Because the interior environment remained largely undisturbed, the murals have been exceptionally well-preserved. The artifacts recovered from the site, including human remains and items such as small swords and iron arrowheads, serve as vital records of the burial culture and daily life of the era. Some of these excavated items are also designated as tangible cultural properties of Hitachinaka City.
The primary attraction is the mural art within the stone chamber. While access to the actual murals is strictly limited to specific periods, a full-scale replica is currently exhibited at the facility, allowing you to observe the intricate patterns and iconography up close. Additionally, you can observe the distinctive keyhole shape of the mound itself. The surrounding moat (shuko) provides a clear understanding of the ancient structural layout. The exhibition facility also displays authentic weapons and tools unearthed from the site, offering a tangible connection to the past.
Access to the actual murals inside the stone chamber is limited to only two times a year: during the spring and autumn openings. For the spring season, visiting hours are 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM, and for autumn, they are 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. It is highly recommended to plan your trip around these specific windows to see the original art. Outside of these periods, the historical park remains open for strolls and sightseeing at any time. Visiting during the day is ideal for observing the mound's structure and the surrounding natural scenery under bright, natural light.
Adjacent to the Hitachinaka City Archaeological Research Center, visitors can explore various archaeological exhibits. Through the life-sized replica of the stone chamber murals, you can experience the vibrant, colorful world of ancient Japan. The center also hosts archaeological lectures approximately four times a year. For those seeking a deeper understanding of history, checking the event schedule in advance is a great way to enhance your visit. You can also enjoy a peaceful walk around the mound to feel the ancient topography and landscape.
The area is developed as the 'Toruzuka Kofun Historical Park,' offering a serene environment surrounded by nature. Nearby, you can also find the Isoguro-ana lateral tomb group (a national historical site), one of the largest collections of its kind in Eastern Japan. This allows for a comprehensive historical journey through a landscape where history and nature coexist peacefully.