Exploring the Kofun of Tochigi Prefecture
Tochigi Prefecture is deeply rooted in Japanese history, and its numerous kofun (ancient burial mounds) are a testament to this. These are precious cultural heritages left by the people of ancient Japan, each with unique characteristics depending on the region. Notably, the Ushizuka Kofun and Komagata Otsuka Kofun exude various charms based on their shapes and historical backgrounds. These kofun go beyond mere tourist attractions and serve as crucial clues to understanding the history of the Japanese archipelago.
There are over 1,300 kofun in Tochigi Prefecture, including a unique style known as “Shimotsuke-type kofun.” The distinctive design and structure of these kofun are not found in other regions, raising questions about the historical reasons behind them. To answer these questions, we invite you on a fascinating journey filled with diverse information.
Due to this rich background, many tourists and history enthusiasts visit, each enjoying a dialogue with the past from different perspectives. We encourage you to take the first step into this grand and mysterious world.
The Kofun of Tochigi Prefecture and Their Historical Background
Tochigi Prefecture is home to numerous significant archaeological sites that tell the story of Japan’s ancient history. Among these, the kofun are particularly noteworthy. Built during the Kofun period, these tombs were the burial sites of regional rulers and wealthy individuals, with their scale and shape reflecting the social structure of the time.
Notable Kofun Clusters
Over 1,300 kofun have been identified in Tochigi Prefecture, and here are a few of the most remarkable ones.
Ushizuka Kofun in Mibu Town
Located in Mibu Town, the Ushizuka Kofun is a scallop-shaped kofun approximately 60 meters long, situated on a plateau on the left bank of the Kurokawa River. This type has a unique shape consisting of a rear circular part and a front square part, creating a spectacular landscape. The two-tiered construction demonstrates the technical prowess and social significance of the time.
Nasu Hachimanzuka Kofun Cluster
In the Nasu region, there is the Nasu Hachimanzuka Kofun Cluster, where valuable items such as Chinese mirrors have been unearthed. Built from the late 3rd century to the 4th century, this cluster of front-square, rear-circular tombs is considered one of the earliest in the Kanto region. Additionally, the area features the unique “Shimotsuke-type kofun.”
The Value of Cultural Properties and Preservation Activities
Tochigi Prefecture is home to many designated cultural property sites. “Nagaoka’s Hundred Holes” is a prime example, preserved in harmony with its beautiful natural surroundings. These sites are cherished by the local residents and are often open to visitors, though some have access restrictions, so it’s advisable to check in advance.
Challenge for UNESCO World Heritage Registration
Tochigi Prefecture is also working towards registering 35 selected important sites and cultural properties as UNESCO World Heritage sites. This effort is expected to enhance international recognition and promote tourism. However, appropriate protection and management are essential to preserve them for the future.
Tips and Recommended Routes for Visiting
Gathering information beforehand is crucial for historical site tours. Check basic information such as access methods and opening hours, and ensure safety. Additionally, obtaining the latest information from official websites and local guidebooks is recommended.
Exploration Route Around Ashikaga Park
On the north side of the Watarase River flowing through central Ashikaga City, there is the Ashikaga Park Kofun Cluster. Here, you can see more than nine circular or front-square, rear-circular tombs, each with different characteristics. Moreover, the park is equipped with lighting for observing the interior of stone chambers, providing a safe and intriguing experience.
Conclusion: Gain Knowledge and Inspiration Through Historical Exploration!
Throughout Tochigi Prefecture, you can find “Togoku” (Eastern Country) with its uniquely rich cultural heritage and local art masterpieces on a grand scale! Enjoy a journey filled with various attractions, including new discoveries in Japanese history that were previously unknown. We hope you will visit and savor the experience, and most importantly, return home with a sense of wonder.
About Kofun Tours in Tochigi Prefecture
What kinds of kofun are there in Tochigi Prefecture?
Tochigi Prefecture is dotted with many kofun, notably the Azuma Kofun and Biwazuka Kofun located in Mibu Town and Oyama City. The Azuma Kofun is 127.85 meters long, ranking 12th in eastern Japan. Meanwhile, the Biwazuka Kofun is 124.8 meters long and designated as a national historic site. Additionally, Oyama City is home to the Marishitenzuka Kofun, each constructed around the 6th century.
Are there any recommended kofun that are easily accessible?
Around Utsunomiya City, the Sasazuka Kofun is recommended. This front-square, rear-circular tomb was built in the mid-5th century, and haniwa (clay figures) have been discovered there. Nearby, you can also visit Futagozuka and Matsunozuka, allowing you to see multiple sites in one day. These can be accessed from the Utsunomiya Ring Road, making it convenient by car.
How should I go about visiting them?
Many kofun are located in nature-rich areas, so walking is recommended. For example, starting from the Tochigi Prefectural General Sports Park and exploring the Tsukayama Kofun Cluster is a good idea. Additionally, bicycle paths are available, allowing for efficient sightseeing by bike. However, some areas have limited parking, so checking in advance is advisable.
Learn About Individual Features
What is Atagozuka Kofun like?
There are several Atagozuka Kofun, but the famous one is a front-square, rear-circular tomb about 90 meters long in Tsuga Town, Tochigi City. An Atago Shrine is also located here, attracting many tourists. Note that there is another kofun with the same name in Shimotogami Town, Utsunomiya City.
Are there other noteworthy sites?
Fujimoto Kannonzan Kofun (Ashikaga City) is a front-square, rear-circular tomb with a unique shape, measuring 117.8 meters in length. Its location on the right bank of the Yabagawa River offers many points for considering its historical and cultural background.
About Visiting Seasons and Precautions
When is the best time to visit, and what are the recommended seasons?
Spring and autumn are recommended. The mild climate makes it ideal for walking tours. Additionally, you can enjoy even more beautiful scenery with fresh greenery or autumn leaves. However, in summer, early morning or evening visits can also be comfortable.
What should I be careful about when visiting?
Some areas may be on private property, so always follow the instructions on signboards. After heavy rain, the ground may be slippery, so it’s important to have safe equipment. Preparing by using map apps to check your current location is also recommended.
Summary of Kofun Exploration in Tochigi
Tochigi Prefecture is a region dotted with numerous kofun that embody the history of ancient Japan. Notably, the Ushizuka Kofun and Komagata Otsuka Kofun captivate many tourists with their shapes and historical backgrounds. The area boasts over 1,300 kofun, including the unique “Shimotsuke-type kofun,” each reflecting the social structure of the time and offering distinct attractions.
The Nasu Hachimanzuka Kofun Cluster has yielded valuable items such as Chinese mirrors and is noted as one of the earliest front-square, rear-circular tomb clusters in the Kanto region. Additionally, many sites, like the designated cultural property “Nagaoka’s Hundred Holes,” are preserved in harmony with their beautiful natural surroundings.
Furthermore, Tochigi Prefecture is advancing efforts for UNESCO World Heritage registration, aiming to enhance international recognition and promote tourism. However, appropriate protection and management are essential. When visiting, check opening hours and access methods in advance, and ensure safety.
The area around Ashikaga Park offers a recommended route where you can see various circular or front-square, rear-circular tombs. Equipped with lighting for observing the interior of stone chambers, it provides a safe and intriguing experience. Embark on a journey through these historical spots to gain new knowledge and inspiration.