This is one of the Hino faults, which have formed on the border between the Chichibu Mountains and Chichibu Basin. The cave was created as a result of water washing away the portion of the rock that had crumbled due to a shift in the fault. It is called a “fault cave.”
There is a place called Kagamihada (slickenside) that had been polished when the faults shifted and rubbed against each other, and you can also see linear scratches. It is rare to find a place where you can directly observe a fault plane.
Check these places out too!
Weeping Cherry of Arakawa River
Near the Wakamiko Dansodo are scenic spots that are famous for weeping cherry such as Seiun-ji Temple, Chosen-in Temple (Chichibu Pilgrimage Temple No. 29), and Shofuku-ji Temple.
This is a facility where you can enjoy specialty soba (buckwheat noodles). Group reservations are welcome. A soba festival is held in the spring and autumn.
Urayama Dam
This is a dam located in Urayama River, which is a tributary of Arakawa River. The museum has an exhibit on Chichibu Geopark.
Train: Approx. 15-minute walk from Chichibu Railway Bushu-Nakagawa Station.
Bus: Take the Seibu Kanko Bus bound for Hanaminosato (circular route) from Seibu Railway Seibu-Chichibu Station or Chichibu Railway Chichibu Station. Get off at Fudasho Nijukyuban Iriguchi and walk for 15 minutes.
