Why Sho-Futago Kofun Is Called the “Department Store of Haniwa”
Sho-Futago Kofun is a two-tiered keyhole-shaped burial mound with its main axis oriented approximately 131 degrees northeast.
Part of the mound was formed by cutting and shaping the natural ground, while a shield-shaped moat once surrounded the mound. Including the moat, the entire complex measured approximately 44 meters.
A Remarkable Variety of Haniwa
The most distinctive feature of Sho-Futago Kofun is the remarkable variety of haniwa figures that once decorated the mound.
Approximately 80 to 90 cylindrical haniwa were arranged neatly along the terrace of the mound. At the top of the front section stood figurative haniwa representing people, horses, and other subjects, while haniwa depicting ritual and ceremonial objects were placed on the top of the rounded rear section.
Because of this extraordinary variety of forms, Sho-Futago Kofun is affectionately known as the “Department Store of Haniwa.” The restored displays provide visitors with an opportunity to imagine how colorful and visually impressive the ancient burial mound may once have been.
A Close Connection with Ushiro-Futago Kofun
Sho-Futago Kofun was built at almost the same time as the neighboring Ushiro-Futago Kofun, and the two tombs were constructed with their main axes oriented in nearly the same direction.
Their close proximity and similar dates suggest that the individuals buried in the two tombs were closely connected. The tombs may have formed part of a family or clan cemetery belonging to a powerful local lineage based at the southern foot of Mount Akagi.
This relationship makes Sho-Futago Kofun particularly valuable for understanding the social structure and regional power relationships of the ancient Kenu area during the 6th century.
The Burial Chamber and Archaeological Discoveries
The burial facility is a semi-underground, single-ended side-entrance stone chamber. It has been reconstructed as approximately 6 meters long, 1.8 meters wide at the rear wall, and 1.8 meters high.
The tomb was looted during the Meiji period, and the ceiling of the stone chamber was lost. Archaeological excavations, however, revealed important details about its original structure.
Grave Goods and Ritual Remains
Artifacts discovered inside the stone chamber include small glass beads, gilt-bronze earrings, straight swords, small knives, iron arrowheads, fittings associated with bows, and Sue ware pottery.
These objects provide clues about the weapons, clothing, personal ornaments, and burial customs of the people associated with the tomb.
Haji ware and Sue ware pottery were also discovered in front of the stone chamber. Traces of burned earth were found in the same area, suggesting that ritual activities or ceremonies were performed in front of the burial chamber.
The Omuro Kofun Burial Mounds and Omuro Park
Sho-Futago Kofun forms part of the extensive Omuro Kofun Burial Mounds, which are centered around four major keyhole-shaped tombs: Mae-Futago Kofun, Naka-Futago Kofun, Ushiro-Futago Kofun, and Sho-Futago Kofun.
These tombs were constructed from the beginning to the latter half of the 6th century and demonstrate the power and influence of the clans who controlled the southern foothills of Mount Akagi. All four major tombs are designated as National Historic Sites.
A Park Where History and Nature Come Together
Today, the area is preserved as Omuro Park, which has been selected as one of the 100 Best Historical Parks in Japan.
In addition to the ancient burial mounds, the spacious park contains the Umeki Site, believed to have been associated with the residence of a powerful local clan, the Former Sekine Residence, a reconstructed late-Edo-period sericulture farmhouse, and reconstructed structures representing ancient dwellings.
The park also features nature-oriented areas such as the Hill of Passing Winds, the Plaza of Time, and the Waterfront Zone.
Visitors can enjoy different scenery throughout the year, from fresh green foliage in spring to colorful autumn leaves and fields of cosmos flowers. The combination of archaeological sites and seasonal landscapes makes Omuro Park a rewarding place for both historical and nature walks.
Archaeological Research and Preservation
The Omuro Kofun Burial Mounds attracted nationwide attention after archaeological investigations were carried out in 1878 as part of an effort to identify possible imperial tomb sites.
The British diplomat and Japan scholar Ernest Satow also visited the site, recording artifacts and carrying out scientific observations and analysis. The accumulation of research over many years has helped researchers better understand the culture of the Kofun period and the international connections that existed in ancient Japan.
Restoring the Landscape of the Kofun Period
Since the Heisei period, large-scale preservation and restoration projects have been undertaken based on archaeological discoveries.
Haniwa arrangements and the shape of the burial mounds have been reconstructed, allowing visitors to experience the site in a setting that evokes its appearance in ancient times.
The reconstructed landscape conveys the power and authority of the people who once ruled this region, while also making the archaeological site accessible to families and travelers interested in Japanese history.
A Historic Landscape Beneath Mount Akagi
Set against the magnificent scenery of Mount Akagi, Sho-Futago Kofun and the wider Omuro Kofun Burial Mounds preserve important evidence of the prosperity and political power of the ancient Kenu region during the 6th century.
Standing among the reconstructed haniwa, visitors can imagine the funerary ceremonies and rituals that once took place here more than 1,400 years ago.
With its combination of archaeological remains, reconstructed ancient landscapes, and beautiful seasonal scenery, Omuro Park offers a unique opportunity to step into the world of ancient Japan while enjoying the peaceful natural surroundings of the southern slopes of Mount Akagi.