Blue Cave (Maeda) - Image 1
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Blue Cave Maeda

3.9
·42 reviews·Onna, Japan

Discover the magical Blue Cave Maeda, a natural wonder in Okinawa famed for its luminous blue waters illuminated by sunlight.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Midday

Sunlight creates the best blue glow

CrowdHigh
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Blue Cave (Maeda) - Image 1

Blue Cave Maeda

Best Time

Midday

Sunlight creates the best blue glow

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover the magical Blue Cave Maeda, a natural wonder in Okinawa famed for its luminous blue waters illuminated by sunlight.

3.9
(42 reviews)

"The blue light inside the cave is truly magical and unlike anything I've ever seen!"

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Capture the Blue Light

Visit midday for the most vibrant blue hues. Underwater cameras are recommended for the best shots!

🍜 Soba with a View

Try the unique blue soba! Some reviewers enjoyed it with a beer after diving.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Mesmerizing Blue Cave

The Mesmerizing Blue Cave

Cape Maeda

Witness the surreal, luminous blue light that fills this natural sea cave. A truly unforgettable natural wonder.

Underwater Exploration

Underwater Exploration

Cape Maeda

Snorkel or dive in the crystal-clear waters surrounding the cave, teeming with marine life.

Local Soba Delights

Local Soba Delights

Near the Blue Cave entrance

Savor unique soba noodles, some even dyed blue to mimic the cave's famous glow.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for the Blue Cave

To experience the magical blue hues of the Blue Cave Maeda, aim for midday when sunlight penetrates the water. Arriving early or late can mean fewer crowds and a more serene visit. Consider booking tours in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.

Fuel Up Before or After Your Dive

Several eateries near the Blue Cave Maeda offer convenient meals. Many visitors opt for lunch or a refreshing drink after snorkeling or diving. Taco rice and soba noodles are popular choices, with some shops offering unique 'blue' soba to match the cave's ambiance.

Best Times

When
Midday
Why
Sunlight creates the best blue glow
Crowd
High
When
Early morning or late afternoon
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

⇩ お店の詳細🍵 ⇩ 他の投稿はココから @taro_shiga ————————————— 今回紹介した場所は 『十割そば 夢創庵(@soba_musouan )』さん! ずっと切り盛りしていた店主(お父さん)が倒れて、お客様の繋がりを断ちたくない!って思いから… 今は娘さんとお母さん2人で営業されてます✨ 2人の優しさがお店に滲み出てるうう! 十割そばを打つのって簡単じゃないのに、意思を受け継いで厨房に立ってるのほんまにすごい🥲 もちろん味はバツグン! 細打ちと太打ちが選べるのも珍しかった🌱 そばの香りが好きな人は、ぜひ太打ちを選んでほしい! 塩で食べるとヤミツキになるんよ、、、 僕が食べた平日限定のセットは2600円! 他にも1800円ぐらいで天ぷらセットが食べられたりしたよ🙆 【店舗情報】 店名:十割そば 夢創庵 住所:滋賀県甲賀市水口町下山693-333 営業時間:11:...
@taro_shiga
5.1K likes • 249K views

📸 Capture the Blue Light

Visit midday for the most vibrant blue hues. Underwater cameras are recommended for the best shots! TikTok

🍜 Soba with a View

Try the unique blue soba! Some reviewers enjoyed it with a beer after diving. Reddit

🤿 Dive or Snorkel Tours

Book tours in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure entry. Reddit

👟 Wear Water Shoes

Essential for navigating the rocky entrance and slippery surfaces inside the cave. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture the Blue Light

Visit midday for the most vibrant blue hues. Underwater cameras are recommended for the best shots! TikTok

🍜 Soba with a View

Try the unique blue soba! Some reviewers enjoyed it with a beer after diving. Reddit

🤿 Dive or Snorkel Tours

Book tours in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure entry. Reddit

👟 Wear Water Shoes

Essential for navigating the rocky entrance and slippery surfaces inside the cave. Reddit

🚗 Parking Availability

Parking can be limited; arrive early or consider tour transport. Reddit

What Travellers Say

3.9
(42 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the breathtaking blue hues of the cave, calling it a magical and unforgettable experience. The convenience of nearby eateries and the opportunity for snorkeling or diving are also highly praised. However, some find the crowds overwhelming during peak times, and the rocky access can be challenging for some.

"We arrived earlier than our scheduled snorkelling appointment so we had lunch here. Portion size are good. My first time eating Taco Rice. The rice dish was not bad but I still prefer tacos in shell or pita. The blue soup for the soba looks interesting, to reflect the blue cave, a tourist attraction in Cape Maeda, I believe. This noodle shop was the only one that was open on the day we visited."

Samantha Han

"was pretty quiet but the noodles served were nice, sat outside at the table with a beer and enjoyed the peace and quiet, noodles vary and are around 700 per bowl"

Antique simon

"Convenient place to have meals and drinks after joint diving or snorkeling."

Allen Liao

What People Like

Stunning blue light
Snorkeling and diving
Unique blue soba

What People Dislike

Crowded during midday
Rocky entry points

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Blue Cave Maeda is located at Cape Maeda in Okinawa. You can drive there and park, or join a guided tour which often includes transportation. Many visitors arrive via tour buses or rental cars. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available near the Blue Cave Maeda, but it can get crowded, especially during peak hours. Arriving early is recommended. Reddit

While you can drive to Cape Maeda, accessing the cave itself typically requires a guided tour or swimming/snorkeling. It's not a simple walk-in attraction. Reddit

From Naha, you can rent a car and drive approximately 1-1.5 hours to Cape Maeda. Alternatively, many tour operators offer day trips from Naha that include transportation to the Blue Cave Maeda. Reddit

Public bus routes do go near Cape Maeda, but they can be infrequent and require some walking. Joining a tour is often more convenient for reaching the Blue Cave Maeda directly. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the Blue Cave Maeda itself is usually part of a guided tour package for snorkeling or diving. You'll need to book a tour in advance. Reddit

Tour operating hours vary, but generally, tours run throughout the day, starting in the morning and concluding in the late afternoon. Midday is often best for the blue light. TikTok

The cost varies depending on the tour operator and activity (snorkeling vs. diving). Expect prices to range from around 4,000 to 8,000 JPY per person. Reddit

It is generally not recommended or permitted to enter the Blue Cave Maeda without a guide due to safety reasons and the nature of the access. Tours ensure you have the proper equipment and guidance. Reddit

While some operators might have availability, booking your Blue Cave Maeda tour in advance is highly recommended to guarantee your spot, especially during busy periods. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The main activities are snorkeling and diving to experience the stunning blue light. Some visitors also enjoy the scenic views from Cape Maeda. TikTok

Yes, snorkeling and beginner diving tours are available and suitable for those new to these activities. Guides provide instruction and ensure safety. Reddit

Wear swimwear and bring a towel. Water shoes are highly recommended for navigating the rocky areas. Reddit

Yes, taking photos is encouraged! Many tours allow you to bring waterproof cameras or offer photo packages. The blue light is best captured midday. TikTok

Most tour operators provide changing facilities, and some nearby restaurants also offer them for a small fee. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there are several restaurants and cafes near the Blue Cave Maeda, offering convenient options for meals and drinks before or after your visit. Reddit

You can find local Okinawan cuisine, including soba noodles (some with a unique blue tint) and taco rice. Reddit

Prices are generally reasonable, with noodle bowls around 700-2600 JPY. Some set menus offer good value. Reddit

While the cave itself doesn't have dining, there are eateries located very close to the entrance of Cape Maeda where the tours depart from. Reddit

Blue soba is a local specialty where the noodles are dyed blue, often using ingredients like spirulina, to visually represent the Blue Cave's famous color. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Midday, typically between 11 AM and 2 PM, offers the most intense sunlight penetration, creating the signature vibrant blue glow for photos. TikTok

A waterproof camera or a good quality smartphone with a waterproof case is ideal for capturing the cave's beauty, especially if you plan to snorkel or dive. TikTok

Some tour operators offer underwater camera rentals or photo packages. It's best to inquire with your chosen tour provider when booking. Reddit

The interior of the cave itself, with the light filtering through, is the prime spot. The surrounding rocky coastline also offers scenic photo opportunities. TikTok

Generally, photography is allowed, but always be mindful of your surroundings and other visitors. Avoid using flash underwater as it can disrupt the natural light. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Blue Cave Maeda can be a fantastic experience for families, especially with younger children who can enjoy snorkeling. Many tours are designed to be family-friendly, with guides who are experienced in handling children. Ensure you book a tour that explicitly welcomes families and offers appropriate safety measures. The visual spectacle of the blue water is captivating for all ages. Reddit

Consider bringing water shoes for the kids, as the entry points can be rocky. While the cave itself is the highlight, the surrounding area offers opportunities for relaxation. Nearby eateries provide kid-friendly food options like taco rice, making it a convenient outing. Remember to check the age restrictions for specific tours before booking. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

While the Blue Cave Maeda is a popular attraction, budget-conscious travelers can still enjoy it. Look for group snorkeling tours, which are generally more affordable than private dives. Some local eateries offer reasonably priced meals, like soba bowls starting around 700 JPY, allowing you to manage food expenses. Reddit

Consider visiting during the off-peak season or on weekdays to potentially find better tour rates. If you're renting a car, factor in fuel and parking costs. While some tours offer photo packages, bringing your own waterproof camera or phone case can save money on capturing memories. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Experiencing the Blue Cave Maeda

The Blue Cave Maeda is a natural sea cave renowned for its stunning luminescent blue water. This phenomenon occurs when sunlight penetrates the cave's opening and reflects off the sandy bottom, illuminating the water with an ethereal blue glow. The best time to witness this spectacle is during midday, when the sun is highest in the sky, maximizing light penetration. Visitors typically access the cave via guided snorkeling or diving tours departing from Cape Maeda. These tours are essential for safety and to ensure you experience the cave's magic responsibly. TikTokReddit

Many visitors describe the experience as magical and unforgettable. The clarity of the water allows for incredible visibility, making it a popular spot for underwater photography. While the cave itself is the main draw, the surrounding waters at Cape Maeda also offer vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, making it a fantastic destination for any ocean enthusiast. Remember to book your tours in advance, as they are often the only way to access the cave and can sell out quickly. Reddit

Beyond the cave, the area around Cape Maeda provides a beautiful coastal landscape. You'll find several eateries offering local Okinawan cuisine, including unique blue soba noodles designed to match the cave's aesthetic. This makes it a perfect spot for a half-day excursion, combining natural beauty with local flavors. Reddit

Planning Your Visit: Tours and Logistics

Accessing the Blue Cave Maeda is almost exclusively done through organized tours. These tours cater to various skill levels, from beginner snorkelers to experienced divers. When choosing a tour, consider factors like group size, duration, and whether they provide equipment like masks, snorkels, and fins. Many tours also offer optional underwater camera rentals or professional photo packages, which are highly recommended to capture the cave's unique beauty. TikTokReddit

It's crucial to book your tour in advance, especially during popular travel seasons. This not only secures your spot but also helps you avoid disappointment. Tours typically depart from the Cape Maeda area, where you'll find parking facilities and several restaurants. Some tours may offer pick-up services from major hotels in Okinawa, adding to the convenience. Always check the specific inclusions and meeting points with your chosen tour operator. Reddit

For those driving, be aware that parking at Cape Maeda can be limited. Arriving early is advisable. If you're relying on public transport, research bus routes beforehand, as they might require a significant walk to the departure points. Ultimately, a well-planned tour ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience of the Blue Cave Maeda. Reddit

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