The Orientation of the Kofun Tombs

The Kofun period of the history Japan—between 3rd and 7th century AD—bears its name from construction huge, earth mound tombs called Kofun. Among them, largest have a keyhole shape are attributed to first, semi-legendary emperors. study orientation ancient is usually powerful tool better understand cognitive aspects religion power in societies. This has never been carried out Japan due very large number fact that access perimeter forbidden. For these reasons, investigate orientations, simple tools satellite imagery used here. Our results strongly point connection all entrance corridors with arc sky where Sun Moon visible every day year; additionally, show an rising/shining Sun, goddess Japanese emperors put at mythical origin their dynasty.