In the latter half of the 3rd century, large tombs began to be built in the Japanese archipelago for regional influential figures. These large tombs, which started to be built from this period, are called kofun. Kofun come in various shapes, but those with a shape combining a circle and a square are called keyhole-shaped tombs (zenpo-koen-fun), and are believed to be the tombs of influential figures associated with the political powers known as the Yamato Court or the Wa Court. Keyhole-shaped tombs were built with various modifications until the first half of the 6th century, but what was the state of kofun in Tokushima Prefecture during that period?

This exhibition aims to provide an opportunity to learn about Tokushima during the era of keyhole-shaped tombs by gathering various materials excavated from kofun within the prefecture.

Exhibition Period

July 11 (Sat), 2026 - September 6 (Sun), 2026

Closed During Exhibition Period

- July: 13 (Mon), 21 (Tue), 27 (Mon)

- August: 3 (Mon), 10 (Mon), 12 (Wed), 17 (Mon), 24 (Mon), 31 (Mon)

Opening Hours

9:30 - 17:00 (Last admission 16:30)

Location

Exhibition Room, Tokushima City Archaeological Museum

Admission Fee

Free

Related Event: Commemorative Lecture

"Exploring Early Kofun Period Tokushima Through Tombs"

Lecturer: Kazuya Nishimoto (Tokushima Prefectural Government, Department of Tourism, Sports and Culture)

Date and Time: August 11 (Tue, holiday), 2026, 14:00 - 16:00

Venue: Training Room, Archaeological Museum

Target Audience: Elementary school students and older

Capacity: 50 people (first-come, first-served)

*No advance registration required.

Please come directly to the venue on the day of the event (free to attend).

Related Event: Exhibition Guided Tour

View the special summer exhibition with explanations from the curator.

Date and Time: July 20 (Mon, holiday), August 11 (Tue, holiday), August 29 (Sat), September 6 (Sun), 2026

All sessions from 13:00 to 14:00

Target Audience: Anyone

*No registration required.

Please gather at the entrance of the exhibition room on the day of the event.

Tokushima City Archaeological Museum HP

http://www.tokushima-kouko.jp/

Contact Information

Tokushima City Archaeological Museum

10-1 Nishiyano, Kokufu-cho, Tokushima City, Tokushima Prefecture 779-3127 Phone: 088-637-2526

FAX: 088-642-6916

FACT BOX

  • Source: PR TIMES
  • Category: Event