Asakura Kofun

Asakura Kofun is a burial mound in Kochi with a distinctive keyhole shape built from piled earth. The structure shows the early development of monumental architecture in Japan and allows visitors to explore ancient construction techniques.

The burial mound was built during the Kofun period between 300 and 538 AD and reflects the social hierarchy and burial practices of that era. The structure reveals how wealthy people were honored and interred during this early phase of Japanese civilization.

The arrangement of clay figurines called haniwa around the mound shows the funeral customs and spiritual beliefs of early Japanese people. These figures were part of burial rituals and reflect how people understood death and the afterlife.

The site remains in good condition and visitors can walk the terrain to observe how the mound was constructed. Wearing comfortable shoes is helpful since the location invites exploration and walking around the earthwork.

Modern 3D imaging has documented the interior structures of the mound and revealed details about ancient burial chamber techniques. This technological examination uncovered construction methods that would otherwise remain hidden from view.