Translation guide
Refers to the tomb or mausoleum of a Japanese emperor. The most common and general term is 御陵 (ごりょう). More specific terms exist depending on shape and historical period.
The learner wants to refer to an imperial tomb in a general sense, without specifying shape or period.
The standard, respectful term for an imperial mausoleum. Can be used for most emperors' tombs.
The imperial mausoleum of Emperor Nintoku is the largest keyhole-shaped tomb in Japan.
A shorter, more formal or written term for an imperial mausoleum. Often used in official names.
This mausoleum is that of Emperor Meiji.
The learner is specifically referring to the large keyhole-shaped tombs of the Kofun period, which are often imperial mausoleums.
The technical term for keyhole-shaped tumuli. Many imperial mausoleums from the Kofun period are of this type.
Daisen Kofun is considered to be the mausoleum of Emperor Nintoku.
General term for ancient burial mounds. Not all are imperial, but many imperial mausoleums are kofun.
The learner wants to use a more specific term based on the shape or official designation.
御陵 (ごりょう) is the most common and respectful term in everyday speech. 陵 (みささぎ) is more formal and often used in official names or written contexts. Both refer to the same thing.
There are many ancient burial mounds in this area.
There are also imperial mausoleums that take the form of square mounds.