The Orientation of the Kofun Tombs

A groundbreaking analysis of Japan's ancient Kofun tombs reveals that their orientations are deliberately aligned with celestial events, particularly the daily arc of the Sun and Moon. Keyhole-shaped Kofun, attributed to legendary emperors, show a specific alignment toward the rising or shining Sun, suggesting a connection to solar deities central to Japanese imperial mythology. To overcome challenges like restricted access and the vast number of tombs, researchers used satellite imagery to study orientations without physical site visits. This method provides unprecedented insights into the cognitive and religious significance of these monumental structures during Japan's Kofun period (3rd–7th century AD).

Baratta, N. C., Magli, G., & Picotti, A. (2022). The Orientation of the Kofun Tombs. Remote Sensing, 14(2), 377. https://doi.org/10.3390/rs14020377