Goroyama Tumulus: A Glimpse into Ancient Japan

4.4 (19)

Explore the ancient Goroyama Tumulus in Chikushino, Japan, and discover vibrant murals and artifacts from the Kofun period.

Home
Japan
Chikuzen
Goroyama Tumulus

The Goroyama Tumulus is a circular burial mound dating back to the late Kofun period (6th century) in Chikushino, Fukuoka. It features a decorated stone burial chamber with murals depicting people, ships, and animals, offering a fascinating glimpse into the beliefs and artistry of ancient Japan.

A brief summary to Goroyama Tumulus

Haruda, 3 Chome−９−5, Chikushino, 3 Chome Haruda, Fukuoka, 818-0024, JP

Monday 12 am-12 am
Tuesday 12 am-12 am
Wednesday 12 am-12 am
Thursday 12 am-12 am
Friday 12 am-12 am
Saturday 12 am-12 am
Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking around the tumulus and museum.
Visit the Goroyama Kofun Museum to see replicas of the murals and learn more about the history of the tumulus.
Check the museum's opening hours before you go, as they may vary.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Goroyama Park

Goroyama Park: History and Nature Combined

Kii Castle Ruins

Kii Castle Ruins: Ancient Fortress on Mount Kizan

Asakuragaido Station

Asakuragaido Station: Gateway to Chikushino

Getting There

Public Transport

From Hakata Station in Fukuoka, take a train to Harada Station on the JR Kagoshima Main Line. From Harada Station, it's approximately a 10-minute walk to the Goroyama Tumulus. The train fare from Hakata to Harada is around ¥500. Alternatively, a bus from Chikushino-shi to Hakata Bus Terminal costs ¥250-¥350.
Taxi

A taxi from Fukuoka City to Goroyama Tumulus will take approximately 16 minutes and cost between ¥4,900 and ¥6,000.
Walking

From Harada Station on the JR Kyushu Kagoshima Main Line, the Goroyama Tumulus is approximately a ten-minute walk.

Discover more about Goroyama Tumulus

The Goroyama Tumulus, or Gorōyama Kofun, is a significant historical site located in Chikushino, Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan. This circular tumulus, dating back to the late Kofun period (around the 6th century), offers a unique window into the burial practices and artistic expression of ancient Japan.The tumulus itself is approximately 35 meters in diameter and 6 meters in height. It was discovered in 1947, revealing a horizontal-pit type stone burial chamber adorned with murals. These murals, painted in red, black, and green, depict various motifs, including people, ships, cavalry, houses, horses, snowflakes, animals, and concentric circles. Although some have faded over time, they provide valuable insights into the beliefs and daily life of the people who constructed the tomb.Inside the burial chamber, archaeologists have found artifacts such as gold rings, beads, swords and Sue ware pottery. These findings, along with the murals, help to date the tomb to around 550-600 AD. The Goroyama Tumulus is not only a testament to the advanced engineering skills of the Kofun period but also a valuable repository of ancient art and culture.Visitors can explore the Goroyama Kofun Museum, which exhibits replicas of the paintings and provides an observation room with a view into the mound. This allows for a closer examination of the artwork and a deeper understanding of the tumulus's historical context.