
Otaki Limestone Cave
Explore the Otaki Limestone Cave, marveling at formations like the 'Decorated Cake' and 'Leaning Tower of Pisa.' A cool underground escape.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed exploration

Otaki Limestone Cave
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed exploration

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the Otaki Limestone Cave, marveling at formations like the 'Decorated Cake' and 'Leaning Tower of Pisa.' A cool underground escape.
"The caves are super cool though!"

🚗 Car is King
Buses are infrequent; a car offers the easiest access.
💰 Combo Tickets Save
Opt for the 2-cave course ticket for savings.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The "Decorated Cake"
Marvel at intricate rock formations resembling a beautifully adorned cake, a testament to nature's artistry.

"Leaning Tower of Pisa"
See a striking stalagmite that defies gravity, humorously nicknamed after its famous Italian counterpart.

Cave Waterfall & Statues
Experience a unique chamber with a natural waterfall and carved statues, though be prepared to get a little wet!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting There: Plan Your Transport
Beat the Crowds & Humidity
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Car is King
Buses are infrequent; a car offers the easiest access.
💰 Combo Tickets Save
Opt for the 2-cave course ticket for savings.
⬆️ Cable Car Ride
Enjoy a short cable car ascent to the cave entrance.
💧 Waterfall Warning
You might get wet near the cave waterfall; dress accordingly.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Car is King
Buses are infrequent; a car offers the easiest access.
💰 Combo Tickets Save
Opt for the 2-cave course ticket for savings.
⬆️ Cable Car Ride
Enjoy a short cable car ascent to the cave entrance.
💧 Waterfall Warning
You might get wet near the cave waterfall; dress accordingly.
📏 Mind Your Head
Taller visitors may need to duck in narrower sections.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Otaki Limestone Cave offers unique geological formations like the 'Decorated Cake' and 'Leaning Tower of Pisa,' providing a cool escape from summer heat. While the cave itself is interesting, some visitors find the experience a bit short for the price. Access without a car can be challenging due to infrequent bus services and a long walk.
"While it’s a nice cave, I feel like it’s a bit overpriced for what you get. 600 yen would feel more reasonable for the experience. The cave itself is cool, but the exploration is over fairly quickly. Afterward, you can walk down into the forest for about 3 minutes, which is a nice touch, but again, it doesn’t take long."
Sander Tack
"Good place for family to relax.
Fishing some Ayu or Masu
Going to a Limestone Cave.
There are courses if ya wanna go for the 2 limestone cave course. There is a ticket booth there.
Beat of ya go for the course as you can save 200-300yen.
After exiting the Ootaki Limestone Cave. There is a Nagasoumen Shop for an affordable price."
MukinTukin
"I honestly wouldn’t recommend going if you don’t have a car! The bus drops you off like 40 minutes away from the actual caves and only comes 3x a day. The caves are super cool though!"
Nami Foster
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Public transport is challenging. Buses are infrequent and drop you about 40 minutes away from the caves, running only three times a day. It's highly recommended to have a car or consider a taxi for easier access.
While technically possible via bus, the limited schedule and long walk make it impractical for most visitors. A car is the most convenient option.
Driving is the most recommended method. If you don't have a car, explore taxi services or consider if a rental car is feasible for your trip.
Information on dedicated shuttle services is scarce. The primary public transport is the bus, which has limited stops and frequency.
The walk from the bus drop-off point to the actual caves can be around 40 minutes, making it a significant trek.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While specific prices can vary, some visitors feel the current cost is a bit high, suggesting 600 yen would be more reasonable. Consider purchasing a combined ticket for multiple caves if available, as this can offer savings.
Yes, there are often course options available, such as a '2 limestone cave course,' which can be more economical than buying individual tickets. Check at the ticket booth for the best deals.
Tickets are typically purchased at a dedicated ticket booth located at the entrance area, often near the cable car station.
Information on online booking is limited. It's generally advisable to purchase tickets on-site at the ticket booth upon arrival.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official website or local information sources closer to your visit date to confirm current opening and closing times.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Key highlights include the 'Decorated Cake' and 'Leaning Tower of Pisa' rock formations, as well as a unique chamber featuring a waterfall and carved statues.
Yes, it's considered a good place for families to relax and explore. However, be mindful that some sections can be narrow, and taller individuals might need to duck.
The exploration of the cave itself is relatively quick, often described as being over fairly quickly. The entire visit, including the walk and any nearby forest trails, is not a lengthy excursion.
The cave provides a welcome relief from summer humidity and heat, offering a cooler environment. It's a great place to escape the outdoor temperatures.
The cave can be narrow in places, and visitors with knee problems might find the descent challenging. Taller individuals should be aware of low-hanging areas.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, after exiting the cave, there's a Nagasoumen shop offering affordable meals. This is a convenient spot to grab a bite after your cave exploration.
Nagasoumen, a type of cold noodle dish, is a popular and affordable option available at a shop near the cave exit.
Based on reviews, the Nagasoumen shop is considered affordable and a convenient dining choice after visiting the cave.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally best to consume food outside the natural cave environment to preserve its delicate ecosystem. There are dining options nearby.
Information on dedicated picnic areas is limited. The nearby forest walk might offer some spots, but the Nagasoumen shop is a more established dining option.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside the cave, but be mindful of other visitors, especially in narrow sections. The lighting can be dim, so a good camera or phone with low-light capabilities is helpful.
Capture the unique formations like the 'Decorated Cake' and 'Leaning Tower of Pisa.' The chamber with the waterfall and statues also makes for striking photos.
Due to low light, consider using a wider aperture (lower f-number) and a higher ISO setting. A tripod can be beneficial if allowed and space permits, but be mindful of the narrow passages.
While not explicitly stated, it's good practice to avoid using flash photography in natural cave environments to protect the delicate formations and avoid disturbing other visitors.
Drone usage is highly unlikely to be permitted inside a natural cave environment due to safety, space, and potential disturbance to the ecosystem and other visitors. Always check for specific signage or ask staff.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be prepared for narrow passages and the possibility of getting a little wet near the waterfall. Taller children might need to be reminded to watch their heads. If traveling without a car, the infrequent bus service and long walk can be a challenge with young children, so planning transport is key. The nearby Nagasoumen shop offers an affordable and convenient meal option post-cave exploration.
🚗 Road Trippers & Car Owners
With a car, you can easily combine the cave visit with other attractions in the region. Consider stopping at the Nagasoumen shop for a meal after your exploration. The ease of access makes it a convenient stop for those exploring the wider area, offering a unique natural wonder without significant logistical complications.
💰 Budget-Conscious Travelers
The main cost consideration, beyond admission, is transportation. If you don't have a car, the infrequent bus service and long walk might not be the most time-efficient or comfortable option, potentially leading to additional taxi expenses. Planning your visit during off-peak times can also contribute to a more relaxed and potentially less rushed experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating to Otaki Limestone Cave
For those relying on public transport, it's crucial to research the bus timetable thoroughly in advance. Consider combining the visit with other nearby attractions if you are making the long journey. Alternatively, exploring local taxi services might offer a more direct, albeit potentially more expensive, route to the cave. The effort to reach the cave is often rewarded by its unique natural beauty, but the journey itself is a key consideration for planning your trip.
Experiencing the Cave's Unique Formations
Beyond these iconic features, the cave also holds a chamber with a natural waterfall, adding an auditory and visual element to the underground experience. This area is also adorned with carved statues, blending natural wonder with a touch of human artistry. Visitors should be aware that the proximity to the waterfall means there's a chance of getting wet, so appropriate attire is recommended. The cave's formations, though impressive, are explored relatively quickly, making it a visit that can be completed in a shorter timeframe.
Practicalities for Your Cave Visit
For taller individuals, ducking may be necessary in certain sections to avoid hitting their heads. Additionally, those with knee problems might find the descent within the cave a bit strenuous. While photography is generally allowed, be considerate of others and the environment. The cave tour is relatively short, and after exiting, there's a nearby Nagasoumen shop offering affordable meals, providing a convenient dining option.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit