Hakayama Kofun

Hakayama Kofun is a large burial mound with the distinctive keyhole shape typical of that era. The rear section rises as a circular hill while the front portion is broader, and both sections contain underground chambers for burial.

This mound was built in the early 5th century as a burial place for a ruling class member. This period marked the peak of large tomb construction in Japan before the practice gradually declined over the following centuries.

The tomb held terracotta figures that tell us about the clothing and weapons of that era. These objects show how the upper classes dressed and what they valued during this period.

The site is freely accessible from the outside and invites you to walk around it to see its shape from different angles. There is little shade on the grounds, so visiting on cooler days or in early morning hours is more comfortable.

What makes this site special is four smaller mounds positioned in geometric patterns around the main structure. These companion complexes were part of a deliberate design plan by the builders, revealing their sophisticated understanding of sacred space.

Location: Habikino

Inception: 5 century

Architectural style: keyhole-shaped kofun

Part of: Furuichi Kofun Cluster

GPS coordinates: 34.55753,135.60404

Latest update: December 8, 2025 21:05