Mounded Tomb of

Emperor Temmu

and Empress Jito

Final Resting Place

of a Royal Pair

The Mausoleum of Emperor Tenmu and Empress Jito is an important imperial tomb in Asuka Village, Nara, associated with two central rulers of the late 7th century. Archaeological and historical studies indicate that the mound was built as an octagonal tomb, a form closely connected with high-ranking burials of the period. The site is also significant because it lies directly south of the central axis of Fujiwara Palace, suggesting a close relationship between imperial rule, capital planning, and funerary space in the late Asuka period. Historical tradition identifies the tomb as the joint mausoleum of Emperor Tenmu and Empress Jito. Records further note that Empress Jito was cremated, a practice that reflects changing funerary customs of the time. For visitors, the site offers a valuable introduction to imperial authority, political transformation, and the ceremonial landscape that developed around the Fujiwara capital at the end of the Asuka period.

Explore the Sights

See photos that bring Mounded Tomb of Emperor Temmu and Empress Jito to life.

Stone staircase leading up a grassy hill with a small house at the top, surrounded by trees and flowers under a clear blue sky.
Stone steps leading up to a gate with a fence, in front of a large green tree under a clear blue sky.
Stone steps leading up to a gate with a wooden fence and a stone pillar with Japanese inscriptions, with trees in the background.
Stone monument with Japanese inscriptions in front of a concrete fence.
A dirt trail meanders through a dense forest of tall trees with sunlight filtering through the leaves. A wooden post and wire fence runs along one side of the trail.
Scenic view of rural farmland with green fields, a dirt path, and distant houses and mountains under a clear sky.