What other travelers are saying about Ishibutai Kofun (Stone Chamber Tomb)
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
(^-^;
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
2022/07/17 (14:00) SUNDAY
Historical and nice place to visit . It was not so crowded But still there were people . There is only stone to watch but you can enjoy the view and ride rental bicycle 🚴and enjoy the scenic view. Admission fee 🎟 is for ¥300 adults and ¥200 for Childrens but make sure there is nothing but only the giant stones only . Toilets 🚽 are available . Vending machines and food courts are also available. Car 🚗 parking is for ¥500 per day and bus 🚌 parking for ¥3000 per day . Wheelchair ♿️ person may get little trouble to travel this place but they can enjoy it from far but there are stairs so I think it would be tough for them be careful . staff were helpful and nice . Only cash 💰so be careful to carry cash . Worth visiting .
Ishibutai Tumulus (石舞台古墳, Asuka, Nara) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I visited Ishibutai Tumulus with Hiro’s parents, who are from Osaka, and it was especially meaningful because this was a place Hiro’s father really wanted me to see. Walking into the ancient stone chamber, you can understand why. The scale of the megaliths is incredible — some weighing over 70 tons — and standing inside gives you a direct connection to Japan’s early history.
Believed to be the tomb of Soga no Umako, a statesman who helped bring Buddhism to Japan in the 7th century, this kofun is both a historical site and a cultural touchstone. The surrounding park is peaceful, and in spring, cherry blossoms frame the stones in a way that feels almost timeless.
Practical notes: the entry fee is modest (about ¥300), parking is free, and English information sheets are provided. It’s easy to reach on foot or by bike from the rest of Asuka’s historic area, making it a great part of a half-day or full-day visit.
For me, the visit was not just about the history, but about sharing it with family. That personal connection made the site unforgettable.
History: 5/5
Atmosphere: 5/5
Accessibility: 5/5
A nice place to showcase the historial Japanese era of "Ancient tombs". There are sheets to explain the history and significance of the site.
There is not much things to see except the Tumulus itself though. There are more stone artifacts with very long history in surrounding locations.
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.
