The Kofun Period

The Kofun period in Japan is named for large burial mounds built for powerful leaders.

What Happened

Kofun means old tomb in Japanese. Some kofun are shaped like keyholes when seen from above.

Why It Matters

The period lasted from about the 200s to 500s CE. The tombs show that powerful ruling families were growing in Japan.

Fun Facts

  • Kofun means old tomb in Japanese.
  • Some kofun are shaped like keyholes when seen from above.
  • The period lasted from about the 200s to 500s CE.
  • The tombs show that powerful ruling families were growing in Japan.

Did You Know?

Historians and learners study Kofun by comparing written records, objects, buildings, maps, and careful questions.