Ishibutai Tumulus is located in the Ishibutai Area of Asuka Historical National Government Park, which was developed to protect the area’s rich natural environment and cultural heritage. Covering approximately 60 hectares, the park consists of five areas: the Takamatsuzuka Area, home to Takamatsuzuka Tumulus; the Amakashi-no-Oka Area, with an observation deck offering panoramic views of Asuka; the Iwaido Area, featuring a walking trail leading to Ishibutai Tumulus; the Kitora Tumulus Area, home to Kitora Tumulus; and the Ishibutai Area.
The tumulus was built by stacking more than 30 massive stones, and its stone chamber is among the largest in Japan. The stones have a combined weight of approximately 2,300 metric tons. The mound measures approximately 50 meters on each side and is surrounded by an 8.4-meter-wide moat. The largest stones are the ceiling stones, weighing approximately 77 metric tons on the south side and 67 metric tons on the north side. Their enormous size demonstrates the advanced construction and transportation techniques of the time.
The area surrounding the tumulus offers views of Asuka’s natural scenery. Making use of the terraced landscape, the grounds have been developed into a lawn park where peach and cherry blossoms bloom in spring and red spider lilies appear in fall. The tumulus is believed to be the tomb of Soga no Umako, a powerful figure of the Asuka period, as his garden once stood nearby.
Highlights
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A tumulus built in the late 6th century with one of the largest stone chambers in Japan.
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Believed to be the tomb of Soga no Umako.
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Located in the Ishibutai Area of Asuka Historical National Government Park.
