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Japan Sacred Spots

Sacred Sites
Sacred SitesKansai / Nara

Asuka Ishibutai Kofun

奈良県高市郡明日香村島庄254View on map

Map

Japan's largest exposed burial mound with a horizontal stone chamber. Said to be the tomb of the powerful courtier Soga no Umako, the chamber—built from over 30 massive boulders—stands open for visitors to enter. It is a remarkable testament to the power and craftsmanship of the Asuka period.

Sacred Site Info

Type
古墳・史跡
Legend
7世紀初頭の築造と推定される古墳で、蘇我馬子の墓との説が有力です。盛り土が失われて石室が露出した特異な姿から、古くより「石舞台」の名で親しまれてきました。
Element
石・大地

History & Origins

The mound is thought to have been built in the early 7th century. The village of Asuka served as the 'Asuka Capital'—the cradle of the Japanese state—and the surrounding area is dotted with historic sites including Asukadera Temple, Tachibanadera Temple, and Okaderá Temple.

Highlights

Entering the stone chamber (one of the largest in Japan), exploring the Asuka Historical National Government Park, viewing the surrounding tomb clusters, and admiring the tiered rice field scenery are all rewarding.

Visitor Guide

Cycling tours of Asuka are very popular. A half-day to full-day itinerary combining the tomb with Asukadera Temple, Tachibanadera Temple, and Takamatsuzuka Tomb is highly recommended.

Best Season

Spring for yellow rape blossoms and autumn for red spider lilies, both framed by the pastoral landscape.

Attributes

Five Elements
Deity / Principal Image
太陽の神
Spiritual
鎮静

Annual Events

  • 9

    石舞台まつり

    毎年秋に石舞台古墳周辺で開催される飛鳥の祭典。時期や内容は年により異なります。