
Akiyoshido Cave
Explore Japan's largest limestone cave, a subterranean wonderland of ancient stalactites and stalagmites.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Escape the heat, fewer crowds

Akiyoshido Cave
Best Time
Escape the heat, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Japan's largest limestone cave, a subterranean wonderland of ancient stalactites and stalagmites.
"An unforgettable experience! Akiyoshidō Cave is huge, beautifully lit, and easy to walk through."

Wear comfy shoes! 👟
Paths can be slippery. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring the cave safely.
Cool cave temps 🥶
Cave is a constant 17°C. Bring a light jacket, especially if you get cold easily.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Grand Chamber
Main cave path
Marvel at the sheer scale of this vast cavern, adorned with countless stalactites and stalagmites.

100 Plates (Hyakumai-zara)
Mid-section of the cave
Witness this unique, flat-topped formation resembling stacked plates, a testament to geological artistry.

Underground Waterfall
Deeper within the cave
Experience the serene beauty of a cascading waterfall hidden beneath the earth's surface.

Akiyoshidai Plateau
Above the cave
Explore the expansive karst landscape above, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into ancient geological history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Humidity, Embrace the Cool
Comfortable Footwear is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear comfy shoes! 👟
Paths can be slippery. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring the cave safely.
Cool cave temps 🥶
Cave is a constant 17°C. Bring a light jacket, especially if you get cold easily.
Restroom break first! 🚽
No restrooms inside the cave. Use facilities before you enter to avoid discomfort.
Elevator access available ⬆️
An elevator connects the cave to the Akiyoshidai Plateau, making access easier.
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear comfy shoes! 👟
Paths can be slippery. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring the cave safely.
Cool cave temps 🥶
Cave is a constant 17°C. Bring a light jacket, especially if you get cold easily.
Restroom break first! 🚽
No restrooms inside the cave. Use facilities before you enter to avoid discomfort.
Elevator access available ⬆️
An elevator connects the cave to the Akiyoshidai Plateau, making access easier.
Consider the 'Up Course' 🚶♀️
For a different perspective, pay the small fee for the 'Up Course' walk.
Off the beaten path gem ✨
Akiyoshido is a unique spot away from typical tourist routes.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Akiyoshido Cave for its immense scale, stunning natural formations, and consistently cool temperature, making it a refreshing escape. The well-maintained paths and reasonable entrance fee add to the positive experience, though some note the need for comfortable shoes and a restroom break before entering. The surrounding Akiyoshidai Plateau and Akiyoshi-do Shrine are also highlighted as worthwhile additions to the visit.
"very solemn place, the negative ion
Nature can be a source of motivation by improving mood, reducing stress, and fostering creativity and a sense of awe. Spending time in natural environments can also provide inspiration, promote physical activity, and teach valuable life lessons about patience, adaptability, and selflessness🩷"
Jane 15
"I first visited the Akiyoshidai Observatory and then parked at the nearby elevator parking lot to explore Akiyoshi Cave.
The day was a bit humid, but inside the cave it was cool and refreshing, and I had a great time.
I had seen many photos of the impressive cave entrance before, but the inside was just as mysterious and stunning.
It may go without saying, but since there are no restrooms inside the cave, it’s probably better not to drink too much water before entering.
From the observatory to the cave, the whole experience was wonderful — truly something Yamaguchi can be proud of."
기민주
"An unforgettable experience! Akiyoshidō Cave is huge, beautifully lit, and easy to walk through — perfect for all ages. The atmosphere is peaceful and cool (about 17°C year-round), making it a great place to visit even in the summer.
The cave is full of amazing natural features like underground waterfalls, crystal-clear pools, and unique rock formations. The “100 Plates” (Hyakumai-zara) were especially stunning. It’s not too dark or claustrophobic, and the walking path is very well maintained with handrails and lights.
You can walk the whole main route in about an hour, and there’s even an elevator that takes you up to the Akiyoshidai Plateau above if you want to explore more. The entrance fee is reasonable (around ¥1,200), and definitely worth it.
It’s not super touristy, which makes it feel even more special. Just wear comfortable shoes — some spots are a little slippery. Highly recommended if you’re in Yamaguchi Prefecture!"
Nevaeh Townsend
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Akiyoshido Cave is located in Yamaguchi Prefecture. The nearest major station is Shin-Yamaguchi Station. From there, you can take a bus to Akiyoshido-do bus stop, which is a short walk from the cave entrance. Some visitors opt for rental cars for more flexibility in exploring the region.
Yes, public transport is available. Buses run from Shin-Yamaguchi Station to the cave. It's advisable to check the bus schedules in advance as they may not be very frequent.
Yes, driving is a convenient option. There is parking available near the cave entrance, including an elevator parking lot that leads directly to the Akiyoshidai Plateau.
Travel times vary greatly depending on your starting point. From Tokyo, it's a long journey involving Shinkansen and buses. It's often recommended to stay overnight in Yamaguchi Prefecture to fully enjoy the area.
Absolutely! The Akiyoshidai Plateau itself is a major attraction. You can also visit the Akiyoshi-do Shrine, which is a beautiful vermilion shrine nestled in mossy greenery, just a short walk from the cave.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for the main cave walk is approximately ¥1,300 per person. This typically covers the 'down course' walk, which takes about 45 minutes to an hour.
Yes, there are different courses. The standard ticket covers the 'down course.' An additional fee of around ¥300 is required for the 'up course,' which offers a different perspective.
Akiyoshido Cave is generally open daily, but hours can vary slightly by season. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date opening times before your visit.
Tickets are typically purchased at the entrance on the day of your visit. There's usually no need to book in advance, as it's not overly crowded outside of peak holiday seasons.
Information on specific discounts for children or seniors can vary. It's recommended to inquire at the ticket counter or check the official Akiyoshido Cave website for any available concessions.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main walking route through Akiyoshido Cave takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour to complete. This allows ample time to admire the formations and take photos.
The temperature inside the cave remains a consistent and cool 17°C (63°F) year-round, making it a pleasant escape from the summer heat.
The cave is not generally considered stroller-friendly due to uneven paths and potential slippery areas. However, elevators are available to access the Akiyoshidai Plateau above.
Visitors often rave about the '100 Plates' (Hyakumai-zara), a unique formation resembling stacked plates, and the stunning underground waterfalls. The sheer size of the main chambers is also awe-inspiring.
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside Akiyoshido Cave. The lighting is designed to highlight the formations, making for great photo opportunities.
📸 📸 Photography
The '100 Plates' formation offers a unique photographic subject. The main chambers with their dramatic stalactites and stalagmites, as well as any underground water features, are also highly photogenic.
The cave is dimly lit to create an atmospheric experience, but not so dark that you can't see your steps. The lighting is strategically placed to illuminate the geological formations, which can be great for photography.
Given the low light, a tripod can be very helpful for sharper images. Experiment with higher ISO settings or wider apertures to capture the details of the formations.
Generally, photography is permitted. However, it's always a good idea to be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash photography that might be disruptive.
The Akiyoshidai Plateau offers stunning panoramic views, especially during spring and fall when the landscape is lush and green. It's a great spot for landscape photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing a light jacket for younger children who might be more sensitive to the 17°C temperature. The walk is manageable for most ages, but younger toddlers might need to be carried. The nearby Akiyoshi-do Shrine offers a peaceful spot for a break.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Adventurers
Combine your cave exploration with a hike on the Akiyoshidai Plateau for stunning vistas. The region is less crowded than major tourist hubs, allowing for a more personal and immersive experience. Renting a car can offer the most freedom to explore the surrounding Yamaguchi Prefecture at your own pace.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Experiment with long exposures to capture the subtle details and textures. Don't forget to also photograph the Akiyoshidai Plateau, especially during spring and fall for vibrant landscapes. The Akiyoshi-do Shrine offers a beautiful contrast with its vermilion hues against the natural greenery.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology of Akiyoshido Cave
The cave itself is renowned for its impressive stalactites (hanging from the ceiling) and stalagmites (rising from the floor). These formations grow incredibly slowly, with some estimated to be hundreds of thousands of years old. The sheer scale and variety of these natural sculptures, such as the famous '100 Plates,' are what draw visitors from around the world.
Exploring Akiyoshido offers a unique opportunity to witness the power of natural erosion and the slow, persistent artistry of geological time. It's a reminder of the ancient processes that have shaped our planet, hidden beneath the surface.
Experiencing Akiyoshido in Different Seasons
Spring and autumn are particularly recommended for exploring the plateau. During these times, the landscape is vibrant with fresh growth or colorful foliage, offering beautiful scenery for photography and leisurely walks. The cooler, drier weather makes it pleasant to explore the surface before or after descending into the cave.
Even in winter, the cave provides a unique, albeit chilly, escape. While the plateau might be less visually striking, the stark beauty of the karst landscape can still be appreciated. Ultimately, the cave itself is a year-round attraction, with the surrounding environment adding seasonal charm.
Beyond the Cave: Akiyoshidai Plateau and Shrine
Don't miss the charming Akiyoshi-do Shrine, located a short walk from the cave entrance. This beautiful shrine, with its vermilion buildings set against lush green moss, provides a serene and picturesque contrast to the subterranean wonders of the cave. It's a popular spot for photos and a moment of quiet reflection.
These complementary attractions offer a well-rounded experience of the Akiyoshidai region, showcasing both its underground marvels and its surface beauty.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit