Kitara Kofun

Overview

Kitara Kofun is a circular burial mound in Asuka Village, Nara Prefecture, built in the late 7th to early 8th centuries. Along with Takamatsuzuka Kofun, it's renowned as one of Japan's most famous kofun with murals. The stone chamber of Kitara Kofun contains precious murals painted in vivid colors, depicting the Four Heavenly Kings (Shijin), the twelve zodiac animals (Jūnishi), and one of Japan's oldest astronomical charts. These murals not only demonstrate the high cultural level of the time but also serve as crucial evidence of the deep exchange with the Asian continent. The astronomical chart on the ceiling, based on Chinese star charts, particularly shows the ancient people's observation and understanding of the cosmos. The Four Heavenly Kings are based on the Yin and Yang Five Elements theory of ancient Chinese thought, revealing how people viewed the universe and nature at that time. The zoomorphic depictions of the twelve zodiac animals, unique in their combination of animal heads and human bodies, perfectly represent the artistic style of the period. Kitara Kofun is not just an archaeological site; it's a hugely significant historic site for understanding the culture, ideology, and lifestyle of the time. These murals are a precious legacy conveying the worldview of ancient people and the depth of the culture they built to the modern world. Visiting Kitara Kofun allows you to directly experience the profound history and culture of ancient Japan.