Looking for exploration in the Kanto region outside of Tokyo? Head to Shizuoka Prefecture for the Ryugashido Cavern, a peek into the depths of Japan that’s located conveniently from the Hamamatsu city center.
First discovered in the 1980s inside Ryugashi Mountain, this limestone cavern is thought to be over 250 million years old. The cave itself is huge, over 1,000 meters long, and is well worth seeing while in Japan.
The cave features various rock formations as well as an underground waterfall. The Golden Waterfall, or Ogon no Taki in Japanese, is 30 meters high, making it one of the biggest underground waterfalls in Japan. Even in summer, the temperature of the cave is comfortable and cool.
The site is open year round, but certain parts have seasonal restrictions. You can go inside any time from April through October. Other highlights are the beautiful multi-colored limestone rock formations, and enormous stalactites covering the ceiling. The cave is also home to bats and various interesting insects. The trail can be slippery though, so watch your step!
While you’re there…
In addition to the cave itself, there are also relaxing foot baths that are free to use, as well as locally made handicrafts for sale. After you walk through the caves, why not have lunch at one of the restaurants on the premises? The ice cream, in particular, was voted the best in Shizuoka. Around the caves is a Japanese rock garden and the first “cool air bath” in Japan. This part of Shizuoka is known for their sweetfish, called ayu. In the summer you can go “ayu hunting” in the water and have a barbecue.
Find more to do in Japan’s vast nature.
