Hōōzan Cave Tombs
Hōōzan Cave Tombs (法皇山横穴古墳, Hōōzan Yokoana Kofun) is a group of late Kofun period cave-tombs located in what is now part of the city of Kaga, Ishikawa in the Hokuriku region of Japan. The site was designated a National Historic Site of Japan in 1929.[1]
法皇山横穴古墳 | |
 | |
 .svg.png){kind=icon} Hōōzan Cave Tombs  Hōōzan Cave Tombs (Japan) | |
| Location | Kaga, Ishikawa, Japan |
|---|---|
| Region | Hokuriku region |
| Coordinates | 36°17′57″N 136°23′35″E |
| Type | Kofun |
| Area | 13199.56 sq meters |
| History | |
| Founded | Kofun period |
| Site notes | |
| Ownership | National Historic Site |
| Public access | Yes |
Overview
The site is located on hill on the east bank of the Iburihashi River. An excavation survey was conducted from 1921-1922, during which time 26 tombs were identified. During further excavations from 1964 through 1968, this number was expanded to 77 tombs, and the total number is now estimated to be from 150 to 200 tombs, making this one of the latest sites in the Hokuriku region of Japan, and unusual for its high density of tombs in a relatively small area. Most of the tombs have a burial chamber, which in some cases is configured to resemble the inside of a house. Grave goods recovered include Sue ware, Haji pottery, iron swords, and items of jewellery. From these grave goods, it is estimated that these tombs were constructed over a 150 year period from the middle of the 6th century to the end of the 7th century.
The site has a small museum to display some of the artefacts found.
References
- "法皇山横穴古墳" (in Japanese). Agency for Cultural Affairs.
External links
- Ishikawa Prefectural information home page (in Japanese)