Chikatsu Asuka Museum is a museum that opened in 1994 and exhibits materials from the Kofun period through the Asuka period. The building was designed by architect Tadao Ando, who conceived it with the image of a “Heisei-era kofun” (ancient burial mound). The name “Chikatsu Asuka” comes from Emperor Richū, who referred to this area as “Chikatsu Asuka.” Because it was close to Naniwa, where the capital was located, he called it “Chikatsu” (near) Asuka, while the famous Asuka region in Nara Prefecture was called “Tōtsu Asuka” (far) Asuka. Near the museum is the “Chikatsu Asuka Fudoki-no-Oka,” where 102 tombs of the Ichisuka Kofun Cluster—built from the mid-6th century to the first half of the 7th century—are preserved and open to the public. From the museum, you can look out over Chikatsu Asuka Fudoki-no-Oka. In addition to exhibits related to the Ichisuka Kofun Cluster, the museum also displays haniwa clay figures, armor, and other artifacts excavated from various tumuli. You might also enjoy buying the museum’s original “Miko Kewpie” doll at the museum shop or trying the original “kofun parfait” at the café.