Yoshimi Hyakuana, Saitama, Japan
This place isn’t a typical tourist spot—I’ve never seen it on major Japan travel sites. I first learned about it from a manga a friend recommended, and my curiosity led me to make a side trip while on my way to Nagano.
Yoshimi Hyakuana (吉見百穴) is just a short bus ride from Kumagaya Station. The stop is a short walk from the site, and you’ll pass the entrance to Matsuyama Castle Ruins on the way. These tunnelled tombs were carved into the slopes of the Yoshimi Hills about 1,400 years ago, during the Jomon Period. Although the name means “one hundred holes,” there were originally around 219 caves, many of which were damaged during World War II.
When I visited, there were only two other tourists, giving the area a quiet, mysterious atmosphere. You can walk the paths around the tombs and look inside the dark cave entrances, but entry is restricted to protect the site.
The cave openings are surprisingly small—if visitors were allowed inside, they would have to crouch low to get through the first narrow section. Signs warn about snakes, which favour the cool, sheltered spaces if you look inside.
If you climb to the top of the Yoshimi Hills, you’ll get a sweeping views of the surrounding area. From there you can see the river below and the nearby town—a beautiful contrast to the ancient burial caves. It makes a hidden gem far from Japan’s usual tourist trail.
Route Detail
Distance: 2.87km from Honcho Nichome Bus Stop to Kyakuana Iriguchi Bus Stop
Total elevation gain: 36m
Time: 0h 35m (total time with breaks 1h 23m)
Difficulty: Easy
Transportation & Miscellaneous
Bus from Kumagaya Station to Honcho Nichome Bus Stop ¥640
Entrance Fee ¥300
Food ¥850
