Ancient Japan

Jomon, Yayoi, and Kofun periods

Aerial view of Daisenryo Kofun, a keyhole-shaped burial mound in Japan, surrounded by a dense green area and urban landscape.

From tomb mounds to pottery, the art of ancient Japan is the primary way we understand the period before 538 CE

Jōmon Period
Yayoi Period
Kofun Period

Jōmon and Yayoi periods

A bronze bell with a round top
Dōtaku (ritual bronze bells)

Kofun period

300-538 CE

Named after the large tomb mounds constructed during this period

Terracotta horse sculpture displayed in a museum exhibit with various pottery
Haniwa defined
Clay Haniwa warrior figure on display
Haniwa and the ancient tombs of Japan

Important terms and concepts

Kofun period

Haniwa

Earthenware

Coiling method

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