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A Natural Monument with Seven Caves Lined Up in Basalt Cliffs

About this spot

A nationally designated natural monument sea cave cluster located at the tip of the Joubu Plateau where it drops into Genkai Sea in Karatsu City. Seven caves were carved over long ages by rough waves into columnar jointing basalt cliffs formed when lava cooled and solidified. The caves resemble cooking stoves lined up, which is how Nanatsugama (Seven Pots) got its name. The top of the cliff is developed as a grassland park, and from the observation deck reached via a footpath, you can look down closely at the bundled hexagonal rock columns of the cliff and waves breaking on the caves. Sightseeing boats departing from Yobuko Port also travel inside the caves, making this one of Genkai Sea's most scenic sites enjoyed from both land and sea.

Tips

It's about a 10-minute walk on a grassland footpath from the parking area to the observation deck, so comfortable walking shoes are essential. Be careful not to go beyond the fence at the cliff's edge. The sea wind is often strong here, so having a cardigan or a hat that won't blow away is reassuring. If you have time, taking a sightseeing boat from Yobuko Port to explore inside the caves is also recommended.