If you are a fan of archaeology and visiting Okayama Prefecture, Japan, then you must visit the Takatsuki ancient ruin and the Tsukuri-Yama Kofun. In this article, I will report on the Tatetsuki ancient ruin. If you are interested in the archaeology of Okayama, a visit to the Ancient Kibi Cultural Properties Center will also be informative.
Information on the Takatsuki Ancient Ruin:
The Takatsuki ancient ruin is a large tomb that dates back to the Late Yayoi period (second half of the 2nd century to the first half of the 3rd century AD). It consists of two circular tombs, and was built as a grave for a chieftain. It measures 72 meters in length, making it the largest tomb in Japan at that period. The Takatsuki ancient ruin is designated as a National Historic Site. The ruin’s two main attractions are the large stone structures on top of the tomb and the unique patterned stones known as the “Sentaimon-Seki”.
Highlights of the Takatsuki Ancient Ruin:
Large Stones Structure in the Tatetsuki
The Tatetsuki ancient ruin, located in Okayama, Japan, is known for its two major attractions. Firstly, the enormous stone clusters perched on top of the tomb. Each of the stones is more than one meter long and quite large. In this area, a legend tells of a great battle in ancient times, known as the “Ura legend.” It is said locally that these large stones were stone shields prepared for the battle. “Tate” means shield in Japanese. This legend of Ura is thought to have been the prototype for Momotaro, the most famous Japanese folklore. Visitors to the ruin can marvel at the massive stones and imagine the legends that have been passed down through generations.
The Sentaimon-Seki Stone
Another attraction is the unique patterned stone called Sentaimon-Seki (旋帯文石) or Kotaimon-Seki (弧帯文石). People believe that it was used in ancient rituals. Later it became an object of worship of a shrine that used to be on top of the tomb. Although it is now stored in a small repository on top of the tomb, it was difficult to see due to the lack of lighting. I could only confirm its existence with difficulty. Since my photos did not show it well, please refer to other websites (photo and 3D model by Kurashiki city) too.
Its arc band pattern resembles the arc disc found at the Makimuku ruins in Nara Prefecture (Yamato). It may indicate the existence of a common culture between the Kibi (Okayama) and Yamato (Nara) regions in ancient times. It has been designated as an important cultural property by the national government. However, it may actually be more than an important cultural property, as it is important evidence in Japanese history that suggests the existence of a family with enormous power in this region in the 2nd century. Unfortunately, some argue it is neglected because it is not a cultural property related to the Yamato court.
Visiting the Takatsuki Ancient Ruin:
Access and Area Guide
The Tatetsuki ruin lies on the Kurashiki side between Okayama City and Kurashiki City. You can’t get there easily by public transportation, so it’s better to have a car. However, cabs may not come even if you call them because it’s too far from stations and downtown areas. If you rent a car, there is a free parking lot halfway up the mountain to the Tatetsuki ruin. From there it’s a short walk to the ruin.
A nature park called Obo-no-oka Historical Park (Historic Site Park of Kings’ Tombs) is near the Tatetsuki ruin. It’s about a 10-minute walk from the Tatetsuki ruin. In this park, there are a total of 60 large and small tombs (!) in an area of about 6.5 hectares. If you have time, you should visit this park if you are interested in history.
Also, the site of a temple called Hibata Haiji is located between these ruins. It is said to have been founded in the late 7th or early 8th century by descendants of the family that built the tombs of Obo-no-oka Historical Park. Tiles and other valuable relics have been found here but have now been taken to a museum. There is only a signboard indicating that this is the site of the temple, but almost nothing remains. Unless you are very interested in the temple, visiting the site is unnecessary.
The Tatetsuki Ancient Ruin
At the entrance, there is a large sign indicating that it is a large archaeological park. Some signs are in English, and QR codes are available for detailed explanations in English, Chinese, and Korean.
After climbing along the path, you will reach an open area at the top of the mound. Five huge stones are placed there, and you will be amazed at the unusual scenery!
Nearby, there is a stone monument indicating that this is the site of a shrine that existed on top of the tomb until modern times.
Also, a short walk away, you will see a large water tower. A small storage room is next to the water tower, which houses the Sentaimon-Seki stone. It is dark and difficult to see, but I encourage you to try to see it! It is somewhat disconcerting to see a large water tower so close to this valuable cultural asset, but the mayor of Kurashiki has decided to remove the water tower after 2025. That is good news.
Conclusion:
The Tatetsuki ancient ruin is an important ruin for anyone interested in the archaeology of Japan. The huge stone arrangement on top of the tomb, along with the unique patterns on the stones, are fascinating and provide a glimpse into the rituals and beliefs of the people who lived in this area at the end of the Yayoi period. By visiting this ruin, we can feel the power and glory of the leader who built the massive tumulus.
