Explore Japan's Finest Limestone Cave with Its Hundred Plates & Golden Pillar First Thing in the Morning
About this spot
Located approximately 100 meters beneath Akiyoshi-dai, this large limestone cave boasts one of Japan's largest systems and is designated as a Special Natural Monument of Japan. Along the approximately 1 km of tourist pathways, you'll encounter formations painstakingly created by groundwater over millennia—the 'Hyakumai-sara' (Hundred Plates) with stacked saucer-shaped limestone deposits, and the Golden Pillar, a stone column standing about 15 meters high. The cave maintains a nearly constant temperature of about 17°C throughout the year, feeling refreshingly cool in summer and pleasantly warm in winter. The large fissure of the cave mouth where a blue river flows out creates an awe-inspiring sense of adventure.
Tips
The cave floor is wet and slippery in places, so wear comfortable walking shoes. Bring a light jacket even in summer. Early morning visits right after opening mean fewer tour groups and a more peaceful underground atmosphere. The paid parking areas around Akiyosh-dō Bus Center are convenient.
Best time to visit
Allow approximately 1 hour 30 minutes. Early morning after opening offers fewer crowds and allows you to fully savor the mystical cave atmosphere.
Access & map
〒754-0511 Yamaguchi Prefecture, Mines City, Akiyosh Town, Akiyoshi 3506−2
Model course featuring this spot
Akiyoshi-dai Karst Observatory & Akiyosh-dō Cave - Underground Exploration Adventure
Yamaguchi
Explore features & model courses
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