Covered by Rocks, Old Japanese Bunkers in Songgoriti Will Be Opened for Tour Locations

SURYA.co.id | BATU - Songgoriti citizens some time ago examined the cave that is allegedly a relic of the Japanese army, in Songgoriti Hamlet, Songgokerto Village.

Unfortunately, the cave that was named the Japanese cave is now covered with rocks.

Around the 90's, the cave was open, but often used as a playground place for children. Because it was dangerous and no one was maintain, the villagers close the cave.

Hariyoto, local citizens say that villagers was already know the existence of the cave. However, no one has the initiative to develop, then the cave finally closed.

"The 90's the cave was opened, and because many kids used as shelter for children when it rains, and it is dangerous, it will be closed," he said during show the cave at Torong Forest, in Songgokerto, Sunday (24/09/2017).

Apparently there are 7 Japanese caves, with different sizes. He said one of that Japan Cave there is a length of up to 1,000 meters. For the size of the cave is also different. From SURYA.co.id observation, the cave was covered by stones and grass.

"After this we will open this cave because citizens have agreed to jointly make this location as a tourist spot," he added.

Hariyoto who is also caretaker of the temple of Malang Raya added that the cave was once a Japanese bunker.

He is committed, after being dismantled later, the cave will be treated as well as possible. Because in front of the cave there is a vast field. Around the area there is also a common path used for the Downhill area.

"Yes it will be cleaned all, cave will be opened and designed as interesting as possible, because the purpose for tourist attractions," he said.

Hot Springs
Not only the cave, near from the cave there is a hot spring. About 500 meters from the cave location.

"Before that, this cave will be reported to the ancient sites first, so it is recorded on the archaeological site," he said.

Sunari, another citizens added, if the location of this cave adjacent to the hot springs.

Of course it is more convincing if the cave is a Japanese cave. Because the Japanese army is doing activities in the Hot Springs.

"Yes, because the location is near to the cave, where soldiers usually bath, and take water," Sunari said.

He said that hot springs and caves will be used as tourist sites together. Of course this became the main job for the citizens in Songgoriti.

"It's still a long way, but at least the local people are willing to be invited to develop the tourism," he said. (*)

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