There is disclosed a cold cathode electron source includes: a first conductive member, having an end face and an electron emission layer that is formed on the end face and made of an electron emitting material; and a second conductive member, having a hollow portion that enables insertion of the first conductive member in a first direction substantially perpendicular to the end face, and an opening portion that passes through toward the hollow portion; and wherein the first conductive member is fitted into the second conductive member, is positioned in the first direction with respect to the second conductive member by abutting the second conductive member in the first direction, the first conductive member exposing a surface of the electron emission layer from the opening portion.