Chofukuji Urayama Tomb Cluster (長福寺裏山古墳群), also called Nanatsuzuka Tomb Cluster (七つ塚古墳群)

Flow of the course

About this spot

A nationally designated historic site: a cluster of burial mounds built on a hill in Yamaguchi, Kasaoka City. Several tombs remain grouped together, including a keyhole-shaped mound, and the fun lies in walking the hill and spotting them one after another — that one is a tomb, and so is that one over there. Being able to climb up and confirm with your own feet a shape children have only ever seen in textbook diagrams is a rare experience. Little blocks the view here, and the hilltop looks out over the surrounding countryside. Stand in this spot and the reason the park you visit next is called the Ancient Hills will make perfect sense.

Tips

Follow the on-site signage for which areas and paths are open to visitors. You will be walking on grass and bare earth slopes, so shoes you do not mind dirtying and long trousers are reassuring. In summer, mosquitoes and ticks can be present in the undergrowth, so bring insect repellent and brush off clothing afterwards. There is little shade, so do not forget a hat and drinks, and keep the visit short on hot days.

Best time to visit

About 50 minutes. Early in the morning, while the sunlight is still weak, is best

Access & map

〒714-0001 岡山県笠岡市走出