Toriya Misanzai Kofun is a keyhole-shaped burial mound located in Toriya-cho, Kashihara City, Nara Prefecture. Based on its shape and scale, it is believed to have been built in the first half of the 6th century, during the latter part of the Kofun period. The Imperial Household Agency identifies it as the mausoleum of Emperor Senka, the 28th emperor of Japan, and his consort, Princess Tachibana no Nakatsu.
The mound stands at the northern foot of Mount Kaibuki, on the tip of a ridge. One distinctive feature is that the ridge was cut across to create the burial mound, reflecting the ingenuity of ancient Japanese tomb construction.
Toriya Misanzai Kofun measures approximately 138 meters in length and has the characteristic keyhole shape of a Japanese imperial-era burial mound, with a rounded rear section and a rectangular front section. The front section faces north-northeast. The mound was built in two tiers, and its surface was covered with stones. Cylindrical haniwa and bell-shaped haniwa were arranged on the mound as part of its original design.
A moat shaped like a shield once surrounded the mound. However, its original form was substantially altered when Toriya Pond was constructed as an irrigation reservoir during the early Edo period.
The two-tiered mound includes projecting platforms, known as tsukuridashi, on both sides of its narrow central section. Another projecting feature has been identified on the eastern side of the front section. Fragments of cylindrical and bell-shaped haniwa have also been discovered on the mound’s surface. These objects are thought to have played a role in the rituals and funerary practices associated with the burial.
The actual occupants of Toriya Misanzai Kofun have not been definitively established. Nevertheless, the Imperial Household Agency designates it as the joint mausoleum of Emperor Senka and his consort, Princess Tachibana no Nakatsu, under the name Musa no Tsukisaka no E no Misささぎ.
According to the Nihon Shoki, one of Japan’s oldest chronicles, Emperor Senka died in the second month of the fourth year of his reign, traditionally dated to 539. The chronicle records that he was buried in the eleventh month of that year at a mausoleum called Yamato no Kuni Musa no Tsukisaka no E no Misささぎ. This historical account gives the site considerable significance in the study of ancient Japan.
The mound was already known during the Edo period. In the Kan’ei era (1624–1644), construction of Toriya Pond for irrigation altered the surrounding moat. In 1699, during an investigation of imperial tombs in the Genroku era, the site was identified as the tomb of Emperor Senka.
Further investigations were conducted by the Imperial Household Agency’s Archives and Mausolea Department before maintenance work in fiscal years 1971 and 1988. These surveys contributed to the study of the mound’s structure and archaeological features.
By train: From Okadera Station on the Kintetsu Yoshino Line, the site is approximately 1 kilometer to the west, around a 20-minute walk.
By bus: Take a bus bound for the Shira-kashi area from the west exit of Kashiharajingumae Station and get off at Minamimyōhōji-cho. The trail entrance is approximately a five-minute walk from the bus stop.
The route from the trail entrance to the mound includes steep slopes and sections with uneven footing. Wear sturdy shoes and take extra care when visiting in wet weather.
Masuyama Kofun lies to the south of Toriya Misanzai Kofun and is another burial mound of archaeological interest.
Niizawa Senzuka Kofun Group, located to the west, consists of a large concentration of smaller burial mounds. It offers further opportunities to explore the region’s rich Kofun-period heritage.
Toriya Misanzai Kofun is an important historical site, and access is restricted in certain areas. Please respect local regulations and avoid entering prohibited sections. In summer, mosquitoes and other insects may be abundant, so long sleeves and insect repellent are recommended.