源三窟：歴史と鍾乳洞で楽しむユーモア満載の冒険！

Hello, fellow travel lovers!

Today, let me introduce you to "Gen-san Cave" (Genzan-kutsu) located in Nasushiobara.

Gen-san Cave, also known as the "Genji Hideaway," is just 50 meters long, but the cool, crisp air inside makes it an extraordinary experience.

It’s a hidden gem where history and nature intertwine seamlessly!

Contents

The Lively Talk of the Guide Gentleman

The Lively Talk of the Guide Gentleman

First, purchase your ticket. Then, a lively gentleman guide appears and leads you to a separate room.

With flawless ease, he explains the history of the cave as if reciting from a script... but if you grasp about half of it, you're doing great (no need to stress!). After all, history is best felt through the vibe and atmosphere (haha).

Finally, it’s time to head into the cave!

After the explanation, it’s time to step inside the cave!

It’s supposed to be the “Silent Stalactite Cave,” yet the first thing to greet us is... Ikkyu-san!?
いやいや、どういう経緯でここにいるのかツッコミたくなる。思わず、「なんでやねん！」の一言。

A Glimpse into the Lives of the Fallen Warriors

Cooking inside the cave?

They used to cook and prepare food inside the cave as well.

Washing rice? And in full samurai gear, no less!

You can’t help but wonder, “Just how cautious were they?” The tension is palpable, yet there’s something oddly comical about the scene.

Deep in the cave... bats!?

Apparently, bats are lurking deeper inside the cave. You have to wonder—did the fallen warriors living here coexist peacefully with their bat neighbors? Slightly spooked by the idea, the cave exploration continues.

A Recreation of Ariyasu’s Departure Scene!

Inside the cave, there’s a model depicting Minamoto no Ariyasu preparing to make his comeback and head into battle. His sword-wielding stance is undeniably valiant... but considering the cramped conditions of the cave, you can’t help but think, “It must’ve been tough to gear up here!” (haha).

The cave is filled with countless protruding rocks!

As you venture deeper into the cave, you’ll notice protruding rocks everywhere. Watch your head—it’s all too easy to bump into one! It’s hard to imagine the fallen warriors living here... you might catch yourself muttering, “Wasn’t this a bit too cramped to call home?” (haha).

Discover Fossils and Treasures in the Exhibition Room!

Here, you’ll find Jurassic ammonites from Germany and Cretaceous crab fossils from Argentina on display. You might wonder, “Why are these here?” but it’s a rare opportunity to connect with the history of our planet.

This year, new banknotes were issued for the first time in 20 years. Comparing them with old coins and bills on display, you can’t help but think, “Wow, technology has come a long way!”

Don’t forget to check out the souvenirs on your way out!

At the exit, you’ll find a souvenir shop. Still riding the excitement of your cave adventure, it’s hard to resist picking up a little something. Taking home a piece of this extraordinary cave experience will let you savor the memories of your trip even longer!