Kofun
are earthen tombs or tumuli in Japan. They were constructed between the early 3rd century and early 7th century.
These burial mounds are referenced in the name of the Kofun period (middle 3rd century - early-middle 6th century).
Many of the kofun have a keyhole-shaped mound () which is unique to ancient Japan.
Related pages
William Gowland, English engineer who made the first survey for Saki kofun group
Ernest Satow, English diplomat who wrote about kofun in Kozuke for the Asiatic Society of Japan
References
Fei Niao Gao Song Zhong (Takamatsuzuka, Asuka), Jiang Yuan Kao Gu Xue Yan Jiu Suo Bian , Ming Ri Xiang Cun , 1972.
Qian Fang Hou Yuan Fen (Keyhole-shaped kofun), Shang Tian Hong Fan , Xue Sheng She , Dong Jing , 1969.
Qian Fang Hou Yuan Fen toGu Dai Ri Zhao Guan Xi (Keyhole-shaped kofun and diplomatic relations between ancient Japan and Korea), Zhao Xian Xue Hui Bian , Dong Jing , Tong Cheng She , 2002.
Other websites
Japanese Archaeology: Kofun Culture
Kofun Period
Prehistoric Archaeology of Japan
History of Japan
Burial monuments and structures