 |
| Takamatsuzuka Kofun |
Takamatsuzuka Mural hall – Once identified with Emperor Monmu (697-707) was
permitted to be excavated in 1972 after the Imperial Household Agency dropped
this tomb from their list of imperial burial places. The tomb was looted at some time in the distant past and the tomb experienced erosion as a result. Damage was worse
on the south (entry) hall. None-the-less, the tomb was found with brilliant
paintings that ties in Japanese past by showing Korean influence.
 |
| Mural Hall |
The tomb depicts four guardian spirits in four
directions (shishin) were also found on fresco bearing tumulus graves in China and Korea. The names of the spirits are Seryu (blue
dragon) in the east, Byakko (white tiger) in the west, Suzaku (red bird) in the
south and Genbu (black snake tortoise) in the north.
The men in the frescoes hold sunshades, chairs and pouches for swords and
bows and also carry pouches around their necks. The women carry round fans and
Buddhist staffs of authority. The style of skirt is similar to that from Korea
during this period.
 |
| Grave Goods |
Inside the crypt there remained a coffin ornamented with metal nails and
fittings, a Tang Chinese mirror whose reverse was worked in so called Kaijubudo
patter, and ornamental fittings for a tang style sword. Reproductions of the
grave is on display along with reproductions of the artifacts from the site.
The ceiling of the crypt is dotted with small bits of gold leaf, which are
in turned joined in various patters by reddish cinnabar lines to represent star
charts with 28 constellations.
The Takamatsuzuka Kofun was excavated by the Kashihara Archaeological
Research Institute. The wall paintings were designated to national treasures
and the crypt was tightly sealed to preserve the wall paintings. The
Takamatsuzuka Mural Hall was created to exhibit the reproductions of the
paintings that are closed to the public.
Visitors can see copies of the wall paintings, partially restored and
fully restored along with a life size replica of the crypt and burial goods.
Approximate walking time from the Kintetsu Asuka station is 15 minutes.
Bike rental is available at the Kitetsu Asuka station (5 minute bike ride).
Vehicle traffic is not permitted to the mural hall.
The Asuka Preservation Foundation
439 Hirata, Asuka village, Takaichi gun
Nara prefecture 634-0144 Japan
Tel/Fax (0744) 54-3340
http://www.asukabito.or.jp/index.shtml | |||||||
| Koren influence shown in clothing |
 |
| Star Constellations |
 |
| Mural placements |
