Guida
The Mozu-Furuichi Kofun Group Visitor Center is a guidance facility established to provide a deep and intuitive understanding of the value and charm of the 'Mozu-Furuichi Kofun Group,' a registered UNESCO World Heritage site. The greatest highlight is the theater experience utilizing cutting-edge technology. Through ultra-high-definition 8K aerial footage projected onto the walls and floors, you can experience the immense scale and shape of the massive burial mounds—which are difficult to grasp from the ground—as if you were soaring through the sky.
Sakai City, where this facility is located, is home to a concentration of massive keyhole-shaped burial mounds (kofun) that symbolize the advanced political power and culture of ancient Japan. These sites are part of the 'Mozu-Furuichi Kofun Group,' a UNESCO World Heritage site and a vital piece of Japanese history. The Visitor Center plays a crucial role in communicating the value of these historical legacies through modern technology and engaging exhibits. Through the models and displays, visitors can touch the depth of the culture built by the people of ancient Japan.
The facility offers a variety of exhibits and experiences for all visitors. First, do not miss the 8K projection mapping, which provides a breathtaking view of the mounds. Next, marvel at the exquisite scale model of the 'Emperor Nintoku In situ Kofun,' crafted by the Osaka University LEGO Club using approximately 10,000 LEGO blocks. This highly detailed model is built at a 1/560 scale, showcasing incredible precision. Additionally, a full-scale model of a cylindrical haniwa (terracotta tomb guardian) is on display, allowing for a realistic learning experience about kofun structures. The center also features unique content, such as sand displays related to the World Heritage sites of Wadi Rum, Jordan.
The facility is open year-round, but certain times offer special experiences. The 'Photo Time' within the theater allows you to take commemorative photos with the kofun footage as a backdrop. These sessions are scheduled for the 1st session (11:00–11:15), 2nd session (15:00–15:15), and 3rd session (16:00–16:15), allowing you to capture the silhouette of the mounds from specific angles. Furthermore, a free shuttle bus is scheduled to operate on weekends and holidays from March 20, 2026, to March 28, 2027, to help visitors explore the surrounding area.
Beyond simple observation, the center offers many interactive contents. The theater's 'Photo Time' provides a special sensation of looking down at the kofun from the sky. In the gift shop, you can find various items such as kofun-themed snacks, stationery, and local Sakai specialties, making them perfect souvenirs. For those wishing to explore more, the information desk offers bicycle rentals and luggage storage services to enhance the convenience of your sightseeing tour.
The Visitor Center is located right next to the kofun clusters that make up the World Heritage site. Nearby, you can enjoy a stroll through the historic landscapes of Daisen Park. If you use the free shuttle bus, you can easily travel to other spots like Sakai Risho-no-Mori or Doset Bia Gora Osaka Sakai to deepen your understanding of Sakai's rich history and culture.
The facility is barrier-free and accessible for wheelchair users. Please prepare accordingly to ensure a comfortable visit. Regarding photography, please check the rules for areas outside of the designated 'Photo Time.' If you plan to explore the surrounding kofun areas, using a rental bicycle is highly recommended.