Tōjin Kofun Cluster

Tōjin Kofun Cluster is a group of ancient earthen burial mounds in Kyushu with distinctive keyhole shapes visible from above. Each mound features a square front section and a circular rear section, forming the classic Kofun design.

These burial mounds were built during the Kofun period from 300 to 538 AD, a time when Japan was becoming more centralized politically. This era represents a major turning point in how Japanese society organized itself and who held power.

The burial mounds hold clay figures called haniwa that depict warriors, animals, and household goods, showing what mattered to people then. These figurines tell us how ancient communities imagined the afterlife and what skills they valued.

The site is open to visitors with straightforward access to the mounds and surrounding grounds. It is best to check current conditions beforehand, as archaeological sites sometimes have seasonal closures or specific visiting guidelines.

Excavations here have uncovered numerous pottery pieces, weapons, and armor that reveal the craftsmanship of ancient workers. These finds show technical skill that surprises visitors expecting simpler methods from such an early period.

Location: Higashikushira

GPS coordinates: 31.36467,130.98678

Latest update: December 13, 2025 12:41