An electron emission device includes first and second substrates opposing one another with a gap therebetween. Cathode electrodes are formed on the first substrate. An insulation layer is formed covering the cathode electrodes and having apertures. Gate electrodes are formed on the insulation layer and have apertures at locations corresponding to the locations of the apertures of the insulation layer so as to expose the cathode electrodes. Electron emission regions are formed in the apertures on the cathode electrodes. An anode electrode is formed on the second substrate. An outer surface of the electron emission regions is formed with a shape similar to a shape of equipotential lines formed when there is no electron emission region in the apertures, and predetermined drive voltages are applied to the electrodes.