CAVE EXPERIENCE
Akiyoshido Cave
Mine City, Yamaguchi Prefecture
Akiyoshido Cave
Akiyoshido Cave is one of Japan’s largest stalactite caves, located approximately 100 meters underground in Akiyoshidai Quasi-National Park. The cave maintains a constant temperature of about 17°C throughout the year, making it refreshingly cool in summer and warm in winter. The enormous subterranean space is filled with stunning natural formations of remarkable variety, sure to inspire a profound sense of wonder. A special Unexplored Area Caving Tour is also available, offering a chance to explore mystical spaces and experience something truly out of the ordinary.
ACCESS
Yamaguchi Prefecture
Total About 2h 40m
ShinkansenAbout 2h
BusAbout 40m
Hyakumai-zara (Hundred Plates)
This formation looks like hundreds of plates stacked side by side. The largest are 3-4 meters in diameter, while the smallest are less than 10 centimeters, all fitting together seamlessly. Over vast stretches of time, groundwater slowly trickled down and deposited limestone onto the rock surface to create this extraordinary natural sculpture.
Ougon-bashira (Golden Pillar)
The highlight of Akiyoshido Cave is the magnificent Golden Pillar — 15 meters tall and over 4 meters in diameter, a size rarely seen in Japan. Its surface is adorned with delicate lace-like patterns. Visitors are left speechless by its overwhelming presence and beauty.
Caving Experience
Kotogafuchi, an exclusive sight on the Unexplored Area Caving Tour, is a crystal-clear underground lake in the darkness. When lit up, it glows a mysterious bluish white. Visitors can float on a boat and spend a serene moment on the water, fully immersed in this otherworldly space.