Features and Highlights of Naka-Futago Kofun
Naka-Futago Kofun has an imposing two-tiered burial mound. It is surrounded by two shield-shaped moats—an inner and an outer moat—as well as a bank known as a nakatsutsumi between them.
Including the surrounding moats, the entire complex extends approximately 170 meters. The scale becomes particularly impressive when viewed from within the grounds.
The surface of the mound was covered with fukiishi, or stones laid over the earthen slopes. Restoration work has recreated much of the appearance of the ancient structure, helping visitors imagine how imposing the tomb would have looked when it was first constructed.
Rows of Haniwa
One of the most striking features is the reconstructed row of shield-bearing warrior haniwa and cylindrical haniwa placed along the central bank.
Archaeological evidence suggests that approximately 3,000 haniwa figures may once have stood around the tomb. The arrangement also suggests that the southern side may have served as the principal viewing direction.
A Burial Chamber Yet to Be Discovered
Unlike some of the other tombs in the Omuro group, the stone burial chamber of Naka-Futago Kofun has not yet been discovered.
As a result, the exact internal structure of the tomb and the identity and grave goods of the person buried within remain unknown. This mystery adds another layer of fascination to the site and leaves visitors to imagine what may still lie beneath the mound.
The Omuro Kofun Burial Mounds
The Omuro Kofun Burial Mounds are centered on four major keyhole-shaped tombs: Mae-Futago Kofun, Naka-Futago Kofun, Ushiro-Futago Kofun, and Ko-Futago Kofun.
The tombs were constructed from the early to the latter part of the 6th century, with Mae-Futago Kofun, Naka-Futago Kofun, and Ushiro-Futago Kofun generally believed to have been built in that order.
All four are designated as National Historic Sites, making the Omuro Kofun group one of the most important collections of ancient burial mounds in Gunma Prefecture.
Mae-Futago Kofun: Rich Grave Goods and Archaeological Importance
Mae-Futago Kofun is a keyhole-shaped mound approximately 94 meters long. Its stone burial chamber was opened in 1878, revealing a remarkable collection of grave goods.
Jewelry, weapons, horse equipment, Sue ware pottery, and other artifacts were discovered, indicating the high social status of the person buried there.
The site was also investigated by the British diplomat Ernest Satow. His measurements, sketches, and scientific examination of materials are regarded as significant examples of early scientific archaeological research in Japan.
Ushiro-Futago Kofun: An Ingenious Burial Chamber Design
Ushiro-Futago Kofun measures approximately 85 meters in length and contains a partially underground side-entrance stone burial chamber.
The construction method includes excavating into the natural ground to reduce the amount of earth needed to build up the mound. This demonstrates the practical engineering techniques used by the builders of the period.
Evidence of cooking activities associated with funerary ceremonies was also discovered in front of the stone chamber, providing clues about rituals performed during the burial process.
Ko-Futago Kofun: A Remarkable Display of Reconstructed Haniwa
Ko-Futago Kofun is relatively small, measuring approximately 38 meters in length, but it has been reconstructed to resemble its original appearance.
Rows of figurative haniwa representing people and objects have been recreated on the mound. The wide variety of haniwa has led to the tomb being described as something like a “department store of haniwa”, making it particularly interesting for visitors fascinated by ancient Japanese art.
Exploring the Area as Omuro Park
The Omuro Kofun area is now preserved and developed as Omuro Park, which has been selected as one of the 100 Best Historical Parks in Japan.
In addition to the burial mounds, the park includes the Umeki archaeological site, believed to have been associated with the residence of an ancient ruling clan, as well as a traditional house area featuring relocated and reconstructed Akagi-style farmhouses.
The Omuro Haniwa Museum also introduces the history and archaeology of the burial mound group through exhibitions and visual presentations, making the area easier to appreciate even for visitors unfamiliar with Japan’s ancient history.
Seasonal Scenery and Views of Mount Akagi
The park is beautiful throughout the year. Fresh green foliage in spring, colorful autumn leaves, and fields of cosmos flowers provide changing scenery around the ancient tombs.
Standing on the burial mounds, visitors can look toward the magnificent slopes of Mount Akagi. The contrast between the ancient landscape and the surrounding modern countryside creates a distinctive atmosphere in which past and present seem to overlap.
Where History and Nature Meet
The Omuro Kofun Burial Mounds, with Naka-Futago Kofun at their center, are an important cultural heritage site preserving evidence of the powerful clans of ancient Kenu.
At the same time, the area is an accessible historical park where residents and travelers can enjoy nature, walking trails, reconstructed haniwa, and archaeological attractions.
Exploring the restored tombs and haniwa displays offers an opportunity to imagine life and funerary customs in Japan approximately 1,500 years ago.
Surrounded by the natural beauty of the southern foothills of Mount Akagi, Naka-Futago Kofun is a fascinating destination for experiencing the long history of Maebashi while enjoying the peaceful landscape of Gunma.