What other travelers are saying about Ishibutai Kofun (Stone Chamber Tomb)
This tumulus is an amazing site where you can see the stones in their full glory and even walk inside them. It’s incredible to think about the skill and effort it took to build something like this so long ago.
Ishibutai Kofun is not just a historical site — it’s a place filled with strong spiritual energy.
Standing inside the massive stone chamber, you can truly feel the ancient power that has been preserved for more than 1,400 years.
The atmosphere is incredibly calm, sacred, and grounding.
If you’re sensitive to energy or enjoy visiting spiritual places, this is definitely a must-see spot in Asuka.
The moment you step inside, you feel a quiet strength and a deep connection to Japan’s ancient history.
A beautiful and powerful place — highly recommended.
It looks a lots like a dolmen and for the first imperial grave this makes sense . Really impressive to see and to experience being at the hartland of imperial Japan. There are many tombes ofnthe first emperors here striking how these tumules have strong resemblance to the tumuli of the chinese emperors as well as the roman and etruscan tumuli
27th May 2025
NAIST International Field trip, we were taken to Ishibutai Tumulus.
The Tomb of Soga no Unako, or what remains of it.
It was told that it was made with clay and soil that shaped the tomb along with the rocks. Unfortunately, someone of unknown origin destroyed and ruined the tomb, and what you see is what is left of it.
The area is quite small, apart from the giant rocks, there's not a lot to see, so keep your expectations in check haha
(^-^;
Ishibutai Kofun is significant as one of the best-preserved and most visually impressive kofun in Japan. Its construction and the size of the stones used indicate the power and resources of the individual for whom it was built.
The tomb is notable for its large stone construction, which includes a massive megalithic chamber made from several enormous stone slabs. The largest slab, which forms the ceiling, is estimated to weigh around 60 tons.
The site is accessible by public transportation from larger cities like Nara and Osaka. Visitors can take a train to Asuka Station and then a bus or taxi to Ishibutai Kofun.
Guided tours are occasionally available, especially during peak tourist seasons. These tours offer in-depth historical context and are recommended for a fuller understanding of the site’s archaeological significance.
