Juzen no Mori Tumulus is one of several ancient burial mounds (kofun) found in the Wakasa region. The keyhole-shaped mound, located along National Route 27, was built in the early sixth century. Two stone burial chambers were discovered in it, one in the circular and one in the square section, which is unusual for the region. Research demonstrated that these were some of the earliest appearances of horizontal burial chambers in Hokuriku, the region along the Sea of Japan that includes Fukui Prefecture. The discovery reflects the gradual evolution of burial practices from the earlier use of pit-type chambers. Juzen no Mori Tumulus is designated a Historic Site by Fukui Prefecture.
The tumulus is considered to have been a three-tiered structure. It is 68 meters long and stands about 8 meters above the surrounding rice paddies. The diameter of the circular section is approximately 46 meters, while the square section is slightly wider at about 50 meters. A substantial part of the mound was removed during the expansion of a former national highway, but it was restored close to the original state in 1985.
The kofun was originally covered with stones and lined with ceremonial clay objects called haniwa. It was surrounded by a moat with an earthen bridge that led to a passageway and the two stone burial chambers, which were painted with red pigment on the inside. The entrance to the chamber in the circular section faces the south and was blocked with a large stone. There is little distinction between the passageway and the burial chamber itself, and their total length measures 6.45 meters.
Among the grave goods discovered during excavations of Juzen no Mori Tumulus were ornamental beads, a gilt bronze crown and footwear, a mirror with decorative motifs, weapons, and parts of horse tack. Many of the items originated from mainland Asia, which makes the kofun a valuable resource for studying the continental influence on Japan and its culture.
