Sanbe Azukihara Buried Forest

An underground museum featuring ancient trees buried by volcanic eruption and hidden for millennia

Introduction

The Sanbe Azukihara Buried Forest is a fascinating underground museum that showcases ancient trees that were buried by a volcanic eruption and remained hidden for thousands of years. Located at the base of Mt. Sanbe in Shimane, japan, this museum offers a unique glimpse into a lost world that was discovered in 1983. With trees that were planted almost 4,000 years ago, the museum is a testament to the power of nature and the resilience of life.

Discovery and History

The discovery of the Sanbe Azukihara Buried Forest was a fortuitous accident. In 1983, while excavating the area, workers stumbled upon the top of one of the massive tree trunks just a few meters below the surface. This led to the realization that there was an entire forest buried beneath the ground. The surrounding area was buried under volcanic ash and debris when Mt. Sanbe erupted violently around 4,000 years ago. However, due to the unique topography of the valley, the trees in this little pocket were buried more slowly, allowing them to remain preserved.

The Trees

The museum showcases a variety of ancient trees, with the tallest reaching over 12 meters in height and the widest having a diameter of 2.5 meters. Most of the trees are cedars, commonly known as sugi in Japanese. These trees have stood the test of time and provide a glimpse into the past. As you descend the long, curving stairway into the underground museum, you are greeted by the sight of these majestic trees, some lying on the ground while others still stand upright as they did thousands of years ago. It is a truly awe-inspiring experience to be surrounded by these ancient giants.

Exploring the Museum

The underground museum is a carefully curated space that allows visitors to immerse themselves in the history and beauty of the buried forest. As you walk through the museum, you will learn about the geological events that led to the burial of the trees and the scientific discoveries that followed their excavation. The museum provides detailed information about the age of the trees, the species that were found, and the impact of the volcanic eruption on the surrounding area.

In addition to the main exhibition hall, there is a smaller exhibition that allows visitors to see up close the stump and roots of a tree whose trunk has been removed and is on display at the nearby Shimane Nature Museum of Mt. Sanbe. This provides a more intimate view of the inner workings of these ancient trees and allows visitors to appreciate their beauty and complexity.

Getting There

To access the Sanbe Azukihara Buried Forest, you can take a train followed by a bus ride and a short walk. From Odashi Station, you can take a 40-minute bus ride in the direction of Satsume. Get off at Azukiharaguchi and walk for about 20 minutes down the side road. The forest and its museum are located at the base of Mt. Sanbe, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Shimane prefecture.

Conclusion

The Sanbe Azukihara Buried Forest is a hidden gem in Shimane, Japan. It offers visitors the opportunity to step back in time and witness the ancient trees that were buried by a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago. The museum provides a unique educational experience, allowing visitors to learn about the history and science behind the buried forest. As you walk through the underground museum, you can’t help but feel a sense of wonder and awe at the power of nature and the resilience of life. The Sanbe Azukihara Buried Forest is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, geology, and the beauty of the natural world.

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