Amagiyama Tunnel

Overview

Amagiyama Tunnel, located in Yugashima, Izu City, Shizuoka Prefecture, is a 445.5-meter-long stone-built road tunnel completed in 1905 (Meiji 38). Amagi Pass, which divides the northern and southern parts of the Izu Peninsula, was historically a difficult passage. The tunnel's completion significantly eased travel across the pass. Amagiyama Tunnel was the first stone-built road tunnel in Japan to be entirely constructed of cut stone, and it remains the longest surviving stone-built road tunnel in the country. The total construction cost was 100,316 yen. To distinguish it from the newer Amagi Tunnel, it's also called the "Old Amagi Tunnel". Bus services commenced in 1916, leading to increased movement of people and goods. The tunnel is selected as one of Japan's Top 100 Roads and was registered as a Registered Tangible Cultural Property on September 2, 1998, under the name "Old Amagi Tunnel." On June 15, 2001, it was designated as a Nationally Important Cultural Property (Structure), the first road tunnel to receive this honor. This designation led to the cancellation of its registration as a Registered Tangible Cultural Property. Around this time, renovations for tourism purposes removed the existing pavement from the approach areas. The new Amagi Tunnel opened west of the original tunnel in 1970, making the new tunnel the main route. A parking lot and public restrooms are available near the Izu-city side entrance. The tunnel's lighting isn't standard panel lighting; instead, it uses sodium lamps designed to resemble gas lamps. The width is 3.50 meters, expanding to 4.10 meters including the gutters. Amagiyama Tunnel is a valuable historical relic and a popular tourist spot. The surrounding area boasts abundant nature, including Amagi Pass and Mount Amagi, making it ideal for drives and hikes.