Experts from the Kashihara Institute of Archaeology in Nara Prefecture, Japan, have unearthed a massive sword, measuring an impressive 2.3 meters in length, during excavations at the Tomiomaruyama burial mound, located about 40 km south of Kyoto. (Photo: @Kashihara Institute of Archaeology)
The Tomiomaruyama burial mound is believed to date back to the 4th century AD, marking the early years of the Kofun period. Photo: @Kashihara Institute of Archaeology.
Over the years, the Tomiomaruyama burial mound has yielded numerous priceless artifacts, including agricultural implements, tools, cylindrical bronze vessels, bronze objects, and exquisitely decorated mirrors featuring deities and animals. These findings provide a multifaceted perspective on the culture and lifestyle of ancient Japan. Photo: @Kashihara Institute of Archaeology.
Returning to the main point, this iron sword is believed to be over 1,500 years old and may have been used to protect the deceased on their journey to the afterlife . Photo: @Kashihara Archaeological Institute.
The blade has a gentle curve, reminiscent of a snake, and it represents a typical “dakoken” sword associated with cultures that revere snake deities. Photo: @Kashihara Archaeological Institute.
The sword originates from the Kofun period – a time that witnessed significant social, technological, and cultural transformations, leaving a substantial mark on ancient Japanese history. Photo: @Kashihara Institute of Archaeology.
In addition to the giant sword, archaeologists also discovered a bronze mirror measuring 64 cm high and 31 cm wide. The design of the mirror’s back bears a striking resemblance to the pattern observed on the “Daryukyo” mirror, also from the Kofun period. Photo: @Kashihara Institute of Archaeology.
Kosaku Okabayashi, Deputy Director of the Kashihara Institute of Archaeology in Nara Prefecture, emphasized that these discoveries demonstrate remarkable technological advancements of the Kofun period, surpassing previous conceptions and revealing exquisite metalworking masterpieces from this historical era. Photo: @Kashihara Institute of Archaeology.