In a photoacoustic image generation apparatus and an insert, even in a case where an insert allowing the injection of liquid is inserted to a deep position from the surface of a subject, it is possible to check the position of the insert on a photoacoustic image. A hollow tube (155) is inserted into an inner cavity of an insertion needle body (151) that has an opening and has the inner cavity thereinside. A light guide member (152) is housed in the hollow tube (155), and a light absorption member is provided in a distal end portion of the hollow tube (155). A proximal end portion (156) has an inlet (157) of liquid and a chamber (158) that communicates with the inlet (157) and the inner cavity of the insertion needle body (151). The diameter of the inner cavity of the insertion needle body (151) is larger than the outer diameter of the hollow tube (155). Liquid injected through the inlet (157) can flow from the opening of the insertion needle body (151) through the chamber (158) and the space between the inner cavity of the insertion needle body (151) and the hollow tube (155).