Narusawa Ice Cave
Explore a natural lava tube cave near Mt. Fuji, featuring year-round ice formations and a cool, adventurous underground experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Best ice formations
Narusawa Ice Cave
Best Time
Best ice formations
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a natural lava tube cave near Mt. Fuji, featuring year-round ice formations and a cool, adventurous underground experience.
"A unique and memorable stop near Mount Fuji, offering an underground adventure through chilly, dim passages."
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The cave floor is slippery and uneven. Good grip is essential to avoid falls. :athletic_shoe:
🧥 Bring a Light Jacket
Even in summer, the cave temperature is consistently cool. Stay comfortable during your visit. :cold_face:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pillars of Ice
Main chamber
Witness stunning natural ice formations that persist even in warmer months. A truly unique geological wonder.
Lava Tube Exploration
Throughout the cave
Navigate narrow, winding passages formed by ancient lava flows. An exciting underground adventure for the curious.
Fugaku Wind Cave Combo
Adjacent to Narusawa Ice Cave
Combine your visit with the nearby Wind Cave for a more comprehensive experience of the Aokigahara forest's geological wonders.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat (and the Crowds)
Prepare for an Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The cave floor is slippery and uneven. Good grip is essential to avoid falls. :athletic_shoe:
🧥 Bring a Light Jacket
Even in summer, the cave temperature is consistently cool. Stay comfortable during your visit. :cold_face:
🤏 Be Prepared to Crawl
Some sections are narrow with low ceilings. Embrace the adventure, but be mindful of your head! :woman_bowing:
🎟️ Combo Tickets Available
Save money and time by purchasing a combined ticket for both Narusawa and Fugaku Wind Caves. :ticket:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The cave floor is slippery and uneven. Good grip is essential to avoid falls. :athletic_shoe:
🧥 Bring a Light Jacket
Even in summer, the cave temperature is consistently cool. Stay comfortable during your visit. :cold_face:
🤏 Be Prepared to Crawl
Some sections are narrow with low ceilings. Embrace the adventure, but be mindful of your head! :woman_bowing:
🎟️ Combo Tickets Available
Save money and time by purchasing a combined ticket for both Narusawa and Fugaku Wind Caves. :ticket:
🚗 Easy Access by Car
Plenty of parking is available on-site, making it convenient for self-drivers. :car:
Respect the Forest
The cave is near Aokigahara forest. Be mindful and respectful of the environment and its history. :evergreen_tree:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Narusawa Ice Cave a unique and memorable stop near Mount Fuji, offering a refreshing escape from the heat with its impressive ice formations and lava tube passages. While short, the adventure through narrow, slippery tunnels is a highlight. Some note the limited ice in warmer months and the need for caution due to the terrain.
"Cheap but cheerful cave experience amongst beautiful naturescape.
Visit during winter to see ice pillars. We visited in autumn & signs pre-warned ice pillars had melted, so we knew what to expect. Still went for the experience!
Steep but short climb down 21m. Cold, so prepare accordingly. Watch your head for low hanging rocks. A short section where we had to pretty much crawl through - a unique experience! Take as long as you like, but approx 10min round trip.
1.4km trail walk (30min) to Wind Cave - can purchase combo tickets. Well worth it for something different and a bit of a nature walk. But you can also drive there."
Alex Chester
"A unique and memorable stop near Mount Fuji. The Narusawa Ice Cave takes you through narrow lava-tube tunnels with impressive ice formations that stay frozen all year. It’s short (so take your time and make the most of it) but fascinating, about a 20-minute walk through chilly, dim passages that feel like an underground adventure.
It can be slippery and tight in spots, even a section to almost crawl, so wear good shoes and a light jacket. The staff are friendly, and signs are available in English and Japanese. Great to pair with the nearby Fugaku Wind Cave for a full experience. Easy to access by car, plenty of parking onsite and leading into, or local bus, and well worth the visit if you’re exploring the Fuji Five Lakes area.
There is a gift shop attached where you can also purchase food items.
We also visited the Wind Cave, this experience was a little more comfortable, ticket entry can be purchased for both caves at each site."
Tyrone H
"Located in the Aokigahara Forest at the northwestern foot of Mt. Fuji, Narusawa Ice Cave is a small lava tube formed about 1,150 years ago during one of Fuji’s eruptions. The temperature inside remains around 0–3°C throughout the year, allowing impressive ice formations to persist even in summer.
The walking path is short — about 150 meters — leading down a narrow, slippery tunnel with solidified lava walls and a distinct chill in the air. Two main chambers display preserved ice: one illuminated with soft blue light, the other protected behind metal bars.
A full visit takes around 10–15 minutes, and while it’s interesting from a geological perspective, the experience can feel brief — essentially a short descent to view the ice and back. It’s best to buy a combined ticket that includes Fugaku Wind Cave nearby, for a more complete and rewarding visit to the Fuji Five Lakes Geopark area"
Anna Krzak
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take a local bus or a taxi from Kawaguchiko Station to reach the Narusawa Ice Cave. Taxis are convenient but more expensive. Buses offer a more budget-friendly option.
Yes, the Narusawa Ice Cave is easily accessible by car, with ample parking available on-site. This makes it a popular choice for visitors exploring the Fuji Five Lakes area.
While close to the Mt. Fuji area, it's not a direct walk from the 5th Station. It's best to use local transport or drive.
Yes, the Narusawa Ice Cave is located within the Aokigahara forest, a vast lava field at the northern foot of Mount Fuji. 
You can walk between the two caves via a 1.4km trail (about 30 minutes), or drive if you prefer. Combo tickets often cover both.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry fees are generally affordable. You can purchase tickets at the cave entrance. Combo tickets for both Narusawa and Fugaku Wind Caves are also available and offer good value.
Opening hours can vary seasonally, but it's typically open daily. It's advisable to check the official website or local information for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
Advance booking is usually not required for Narusawa Ice Cave, as tickets can be purchased on-site. However, during peak seasons, it's always a good idea to check for any specific booking recommendations.
There are no strict age restrictions, but due to the narrow passages and slippery conditions, it's best suited for those who can navigate such terrain. Children should be supervised.
The Japan Rail Pass is for train travel and does not cover entry fees or local transport to the Narusawa Ice Cave. You will need to pay separately for admission and any bus or taxi fares.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The temperature inside the Narusawa Ice Cave remains consistently cold, around 0-3°C (32-37°F), even during the hot summer months.
The exploration of Narusawa Ice Cave is relatively short, typically taking about 10-20 minutes to walk through. You can take your time to enjoy the formations.
Due to steep stairs, narrow passages, and slippery surfaces, Narusawa Ice Cave is not recommended for individuals with significant mobility problems.
Yes, there are clean restrooms available at the Narusawa Ice Cave site, which is convenient for visitors.
Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes with good grip. A light jacket or sweater is highly recommended due to the cold temperature inside the cave.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed inside the Narusawa Ice Cave. However, be mindful of other visitors and the slippery conditions.
The most striking photo opportunities are the natural ice pillars and formations. Capture the unique textures and the contrast between the dark lava rock and the ice.
Due to low light conditions, you'll likely need to use a higher ISO, a wider aperture, and potentially a tripod if allowed and practical. A camera with good low-light performance is beneficial.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally good practice to avoid direct flash photography that might disturb the natural ambiance or other visitors. Check for any posted signs.
Drone usage is almost certainly prohibited inside natural caves for safety and preservation reasons. Always check for specific regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parents should be prepared to supervise closely and ensure children wear appropriate footwear. The novelty of being in a cool, icy environment can be a big hit with kids, especially during hot summer days. Consider bringing a small flashlight for kids to add to the adventure, and ensure they have a light jacket. Combining the visit with the less physically demanding Fugaku Wind Cave might be a good strategy for families. Remember to emphasize the importance of respecting the natural environment and staying on designated paths.
💰 Budget Travelers
Packing your own snacks and water can also help save money, as there are gift shops on-site. For those on a tight budget, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons or weekdays to potentially avoid higher prices or crowds. The experience itself is a natural wonder, offering a memorable adventure without a hefty price tag.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The dramatic ice formations and the texture of the lava rock offer compelling subjects. Experiment with capturing the contrast between the dark, rugged cave walls and the ethereal glow of the ice. While flash photography is generally discouraged to preserve the ambiance, a good camera with strong low-light performance will yield the best results. Be mindful of the slippery surfaces and narrow passages when maneuvering your equipment. Consider bringing a small, portable tripod if you plan on longer exposures, but ensure it doesn't obstruct other visitors.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology of Narusawa Ice Cave
+2This geological process is what allows ice to persist year-round, even when the outside temperature soars. The cave's structure, with its varying heights and narrow passages, plays a crucial role in maintaining this consistent, frigid environment. It's a testament to the powerful forces that shaped the landscape around Mount Fuji.
Visitors can explore these ancient lava flows, marveling at the natural sculptures created by ice and rock. The experience offers a glimpse into the volcanic history of the region and the enduring power of nature.
Navigating the Cave: What to Expect
While the cave is relatively short, typically taking around 10-20 minutes to traverse, it's important to take your time and be aware of your surroundings. Handrails are provided in most areas for stability, and free helmets are available, though their number is limited.
Beyond the Ice: The Aokigahara Connection
+1 While the ice cave itself is a natural wonder, visitors are reminded to be respectful of the environment and its history. Many visitors combine their trip to the ice cave with a visit to the nearby Fugaku Wind Cave or explore the trails of Aokigahara. It's important to stay on marked paths and be mindful of the forest's sensitive nature. The area offers a unique blend of geological marvels and natural beauty, but it's crucial to approach it with awareness and respect.
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