The dread surrounding KyuInunaki Tunnel (Old Inunaki Tunnel) in Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan, stems from a tragic blend of historical events and supernatural lore. The tunnel was abandoned in 1975 after a new bypass opened, but its dark reputation took root decades earlier. In 1988, a brutal murder occurred near the tunnel: five delinquents abducted a 20yearold factory worker, tortured him, and burned him alive in a white sedan. This crime, amplified by media coverage, fused the tunnel’s identity with violence and death, sparking rumors of a "cursed" presence.
Supernatural Tales and Urban Legends
Legends about KyuInunaki Tunnel are steeped in horror. A prevalent urban legend claims the tunnel is a gateway to Inunaki Village, a hidden settlement where residents supposedly reject Japanese law and worship forbidden practices. Stories describe visitors encountering "mad villagers with axes" or experiencing time distortions—cell signals vanish, and the air grows unnaturally cold. Another chilling tale involves a ghostly white sedan that appears near the tunnel, said to be the tormented spirit of the murder victim. Some claim the car drives erratically, luring intruders to their doom.
RealLife Tragedies and Paranormal Reports
Beyond legends, reallife tragedies have reinforced the tunnel’s fearsome reputation. In addition to the 1988 murder, fatal car accidents have occurred near the tunnel, with some victims found mysteriously injured or missing. Paranormal investigators and thrillseekers who venture into the tunnel report unsettling experiences: sudden drops in temperature, disembodied screams echoing in the darkness, and fleeting glimpses of ghostly figures. Many leave with deep emotional scars, convinced they encountered something beyond their understanding.
Media Influence and Cultural Impact
KyuInunaki Tunnel’s fame skyrocketed after its inclusion in Takashi Shimizu’s 2000 horror film Howling Village (part of his "Inunaki Trilogy"). The film reimagined the tunnel as a liminal space between worlds, where the dead rule and outsiders are unwelcome. This portrayal, combined with viral online videos and forums, turned the tunnel into a global tourist attraction for horror enthusiasts. Today, it is widely regarded as one of Japan’s "most haunted places," blending historical tragedy with supernatural intrigue.