Japan: Byako, the white tiger of Japanese mythology, Takamatsuzuka Tomb, 6th-7th century CE

The Takamatsuzuka Tomb (Takamatsuzuka Kofun or 'Tall Pine Tree Ancient Burial Mound' is an ancient circular tomb in Asuka village, Nara prefecture, Japan. Dating from the 6th-7th century CE, it contains painted fresco wall paintings of courtiers in Goguryeo-style garb.

The paintings are in full color with red, blue, gold, and silver foil representing four male followers and four abigails together with the Azure Dragon, Black Tortoise, White Tiger, and Vermilion Bird groups of stars. The paintings are designated as a national treasure of Japan. For whom the tomb was built is unknown, but the decorations suggest it is for a member of the Japanese royal family or a high-ranking nobleman.

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