About Yoshimi Hundred Caves
Yoshimi Hundred Caves, located in Yoshimi Town, Hiki-gun, Saitama Prefecture, is one of Japan's ancient ruins, a sightseeing spot known for its unique scenery and historical value. As the name “Hyakunana” implies, there are numerous holes drilled into the cliff slope, numbering as many as 219 holes. These holes are thought to have been made in the late Kofun period (late 6th century to around 7th century) and were used as tombs for people of that time. There are a number of such holes throughout Japan, but few others are so large and so densely packed together, and for this reason they are attracting attention as important historical sites.
The most significant feature of Yoshimi Hundred Caves is its mysterious and fantastic landscape. The countless holes regularly lined up on the rocky slope look like a beehive from a distance. Visitors are therefore first struck by the spectacular sight. Each of these pits is a horizontal tomb, and the interior is large enough to accommodate a person. Visitors can actually enter some of the pits and get a sense of how ancient people built their tombs and how they lived.
In addition to the historical value of Yoshimi Hundred Caves, the surrounding nature is also fascinating. The area around the cliff where the hole is located is rich in nature, and visitors can enjoy the ruins along with the scenery of each of the four seasons. Especially in spring, the cherry blossoms bloom, creating a beautiful contrast between the hole and the cherry blossoms. Secluded in the midst of nature, Hyakunana is a special place where history and nature are in harmony, and it soothes the hearts of all who visit.
In addition, the surrounding area of Yoshimi Hundred Caves is also dotted with interesting spots. Part of Hyakunana is an air-raid shelter dug during the war, a rare glimpse into the history of war. Also, near Hyakunana is “Iwaya Kannon,” a large statue of the Kannon enshrined there that was dug out of a rock. If you stop by there in conjunction with your visit to Hyakunana, you will be able to experience the history and culture of Yoshimi even more deeply.
Yoshimi Hundred Caves has a mysterious atmosphere related to ancient tombs and a mysterious spatial beauty spreading out in the rocky mountains, allowing visitors to feel a historical romance that is difficult to experience in everyday life. By entering the interior of the hole, visitors can ponder the ingenuity and skill of the space created by ancient people and their burial customs, making it a valuable place to actually experience the ruins.
Also located within the Yoshimi Hundred Caves site is an exhibition hall, which displays the results of excavations of the cave tombs and provides explanations about the burial culture of the time. By visiting the exhibition hall, visitors can learn more about the historical background and significance of Yoshimi Hundred Caves, making their visit even more meaningful.
All in all, Yoshimi Hundred Caves is a place where its mysterious landscape and historical value can be felt, and is recommended for history buffs as well as those who want to spend some quiet time in nature. This spot, where visitors can feel the history of Japan from ancient times to the present day, will be an unforgettable experience for all who visit.