Kofun culture

Definition

Kofun culture refers to an ancient Japanese civilization that existed from around 250 to 538 CE. It is characterized by large burial mounds called kofun, which contained tombs of powerful individuals along with valuable artifacts.

Related terms

Haniwa: These are clay figurines that were placed on top of kofun burial mounds during the Kofun period. They depicted various human figures such as warriors, animals, and houses.

Yamato state: The Kofun culture was centered around the Yamato state which eventually became the foundation for the Japanese imperial family and the establishment of a centralized government.

Keyhole-shaped burial mounds: Many kofun burial mounds were shaped like keyholes, with a round part at one end and a long rectangular part extending from it. These distinctive shapes are characteristic of Kofun culture.