🗺️ Yoshimi Hyakketsu (Yoshimi Hundred Caves)吉見百穴

Yoshimi Hyakketsu is a group of horizontal tombs built during the late Kofun period (6th to late 7th century) in Japan, designated as a national historic site in 1923. Currently, 219 horizontal tombs have been confirmed. These tombs were created by excavating the slopes of mountains or hills horizontally. However, the main structure for burying bodies is fundamentally similar to that of horizontal stone chambers from the late Kofun period. The area surrounding Hyakketsu is composed of a rock formation known as tuffaceous sandstone, which is said to have been chosen by people at that time because it was softer and more suitable for excavation than other rocks. Another fascinating feature of Yoshimi Hyakketsu is a luminescent moss called "Hikari-sou" (光蘚). Visitors can enjoy the dreamlike scenery of Hikari-sou covering the mountains and emitting a green glow. Hikari-sou is a very rare plant found in the Kanto Plain area and was designated as a national natural monument in 1933. Inside the facility, the "Yoshimi Town Burial Cultural Property Center" showcases the precious cultural heritage of the region. Visitors can also participate in experiences such as making magatama (勾玉) and haniwa (埴輪). Additionally, Yoshimi Town is famous for its udon noodles, and there are many udon restaurants in the area, making it highly recommended to enjoy a delicious bowl of Yoshimi udon after sightseeing.

The cherry blossom season is the best time for photography. The horizontal burial mounds from Japan's Kofun period have been designated as national historical sites. The natural monument, moss, grows naturally in this area. You can experience making tsukumogami and haniwa at the Cultural Property Center in Yoshimi Town. After the tour, be sure to taste the local specialty, Yoshimi udon.