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Yoshimi Hyakuana
(Yoshimi Hundred Caves)

Amazing holes dug into a mountain! A national historical site with tunnel tombs.

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Yoshimi Hyakuana is a tunnel tomb created in the late Tumulus period (late 6th century - late 7th century). In 1923, it was designated as a national historical site. 

The current count of confirmed tunnels is 219. These tunnel tombs were made by digging slopes of hills and plateaus. The structure of the main part where the dead was laid is almost the same with the tunnel stone rooms in the late Tumulus period. The whole area of Hyakuana stands on the bedrock called tuffaceous sandstone. It is said that people back then must have looked for spots suited for digging.

Another attraction is Hikarigoke (Glowing Moss). The fantastical green moss is often found in mountains. The kind that grows in Kanto Valley is an extremely valuable plant and designated as a national natural treasure in 1928.

On the premises, you can view the town’s valuable national treasures displayed at Yoshimi Town Buried Cultural Property. You can have a hands-on experience, making beads and clay dolls.

Yoshimi Town is famous for Udon noodles. After touring Yoshimi Hyakuana, stop by one of the many noodle shops.

Highlights

  • Cherry blossom season is the best for photography.
  • Tunnel tombs from the Tumulus period are a national monument.
  • The natural monument, Hikarigoke, has a habitat here.
  • Hands-on experience of making beads and clay dolls at Yoshimi Town Buried National Treasure Center.
  • Before/after a tour, have the local specialty, Yoshimi Udon noodles.

Photos

  • Spring is the best season with cherry blossoms!

    Spring is the best season with cherry blossoms!

  • Numerous tunnels dug into rocky hills

    Numerous tunnels dug into rocky hills

  • In the valley, rare Hikarigoke colonies are seen.

    In the valley, rare Hikarigoke colonies are seen.

  • An underground arms factory left as a cave 
(Currently entry is prohibited due to check-up/study)

    An underground arms factory left as a cave (Currently entry is prohibited due to check-up/study)

  • Have fun, making your own beads and clay dolls!

    Have fun, making your own beads and clay dolls!

Reviews

Details

Name in Japanese
吉見百穴
Postal Code
355-0155
Address
324 Kitayoshimi, Yoshimimachi, Hikigun, Saitama
Telephone
0493-54-4541 (Hyakuana Office)
Hours
8:30am-5:00pm
Closed
No closing day
Admission
Adult: 300yen, Elementary student: 200yen,
Younger than elementary: Free
Parking
Free
Access
1) 5-min bus ride from Tobu Tojo Line, Higashi-matsuyama Station. Then, walk 5 min.
2) 15-min drive from Kanetsu Expressway, Higashi-matsuyama Interchange
3) 25-min drive from Ken-O Expressway, Kawashima Interchange
Official Website
Official Website (Japanese)