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Goshikizuka Tumulus: A Journey Through Time

Step back in time at Kobe's Goshikizuka Tumulus, the largest keyhole-shaped tomb in Hyogo, offering history and stunning Akashi Strait views.

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Explore the Goshikizuka Tumulus, a keyhole-shaped tomb from the late 4th century, offering insights into ancient Japanese burial practices and stunning views of the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge. This historical landmark in Kobe is the largest of its kind in the Hyogo Prefecture and provides a unique blend of history and scenery.

A brief summary to Goshikizuka Tumulus

Local tips

  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience and better lighting for photos.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the path to the top of the tomb can be uneven with many stairs.
  • Check the weather forecast before visiting, as the views are best on a clear day.
  • Stop by the administration building to fill out a simple form to get permission to enter the site and receive a helpful pamphlet.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach Goshikizuka Tumulus via public transport, take the JR Sanyo Line to Tarumi Station. From Tarumi Station, it is approximately a 15-minute walk to the tumulus. Alternatively, you can take a local bus heading towards Goshikiyama and disembark at the stop closest to the tumulus, which is a short walk away. A single bus ride in Kobe costs 210 yen for adults. Consider purchasing a Kobe 1-day loop bus ticket for 800 yen if you plan to visit other attractions in the city.

  • Taxi

    From JR Tarumi Station, a taxi ride to Goshikizuka Tumulus takes approximately 5-10 minutes. The estimated taxi fare for this short trip is between 1,000 and 1,500 yen. Taxi fares in Kobe start at 670 yen, with an additional 280 yen per kilometer. Kamome Taxi offers taxi services in Kobe and Sannomiya.

  • Walking

    From Sanyo Train “Kasugaoka Station”, Goshikizuka Tumulus is about 5 minutes on foot. From JR Tarumi Station, it is about a 10-minute walk. Head east from the ticket gate and follow the signs to the tumulus. Note that the road to the top of the tomb has many stairs.

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Discover more about Goshikizuka Tumulus

The Goshikizuka Tumulus, also known as Sentsubo Kofun, is a fascinating historical site located in Kobe's Tarumi-ku. Constructed in the late 4th century, this large keyhole-shaped tomb is believed to be the final resting place of a powerful ruler who controlled the Akashi Strait. As the largest burial mound in the Hyogo Prefecture, it offers a glimpse into Japan's ancient Kofun period. The tumulus is a zenpō-kōen-fun, featuring a distinctive keyhole shape with one square and one circular end. Visitors can climb to the top of the tomb and enjoy panoramic views of the Akashi Strait and Awaji Island. The Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, a modern marvel of engineering, can also be seen from the site, creating a unique contrast between the ancient burial mounds and contemporary architecture. The Goshikizuka Tumulus has been restored to its original appearance, offering visitors an accurate representation of how it looked during the Kofun period. The sides of the tomb are covered with fukiishi stones, and rows of cylindrical haniwa figures adorn each tier of the mound. The surrounding area, once a pine forest, adds to the serene atmosphere of the site.

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