Kurohimeyama Kofun, Keyhole-shaped burial mound in Mihara-ku, Japan
Kurohimeyama Kofun is a keyhole-shaped burial mound from the 5th century in Mihara-ku featuring two main sections: a larger rectangular portion and a smaller rounded part. The structure displays typical characteristics of this burial type with carefully constructed underground chambers.
The tomb was constructed in the second half of the 5th century and was one of the major structures of its time in the region. Later the site was used militarily during the late medieval period before eventually being recognized as an important archaeological monument.
The name references a legendary dark princess tied to local folklore about this burial site. Today visitors can observe how the distinctive shape remains visible in the landscape, reflecting the importance this tomb held for its community.
The site is easy to visit thanks to a nearby guidance center with information about excavations and history. Plan your visit carefully as the center has periodic closures and you will need time to explore the full site.
Inside are eight sandstone blocks forming the burial chamber ceiling and river stones on the floor for sophisticated drainage. What makes this remarkable is how this underground construction has remained intact for over 1500 years and continues to function as originally designed.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
