Takamatsuzuka Tomb

The Takamatsuzuka Tomb (高松塚古墳, Takamatsuzuka Kofun) was rediscovered in the 1960s by a farmer digging a hole. Soon after, the Kashihara Archaeological Institute excavated an elaborate crypt of about 2.5 cubic meters with wall paintings and valuable artifacts. The discovery turned the tomb into one of Japan's most celebrated archaeological sites, and it was later inscribed as a World Heritage Site. It is not known who was buried in the tomb, but it must have been someone of considerable importance.

The tomb is maintained by the national government and is located in a medium-sized park with attractive walking paths. Visitors can view the tomb only from outside, as great pains are being taken to preserve the paintings within. Nonetheless, the experience of entering the tomb can be closely simulated in the Takamatsuzuka Mural Hall, where recreations of the tomb and its paintings are displayed, as well as some of the actual articles found at the site.

The most famous of the Takamatsuzuka Tomb's wall painting is of four female figures, known as the "Asuka Beauties". The painting is reproduced in the Mural Hall three times: in its excavated condition, partially restored condition, and fully restored condition. There are also reproductions of the paintings of male figures and guardian deities such as dragons and tigers. Constellations were drawn out with gold leaf on the ceiling of the crypt.