Ryuga Cave

Ryuga-do Cave is a limestone cave in Kami City, Kochi Prefecture. It is designated both a National Natural Monument and a National Historic Site, and is counted as one of Japan’s Three Great Limestone Caves alongside Ryusendo and Akiyoshido. Of the roughly 4 km cave system, about 1 km is open as the standard visitor route. Explore this 175-million-year-old cave for a true adventure. There is a standard course and an adventure course (reservation required by the day before), where you change into work clothes and proceed through unlit paths off the beaten route. You can join easily with no special preparation, and both children and adults can participate. Since 2019, projection mapping has also been introduced, creating a mystical, non-everyday experience popular with tourists. Near the entrance are traces of Yayoi-period cave dwelling. After finishing the cave exploration, there is a free rest area in the forest where you can feel like a squirrel in the woods. There are also traditional souvenir shops and cafes. The site includes the Ryugado Museum and a rare-bird center, making it enjoyable all day. Access is about 20 minutes by bus from JR Tosa-Yamada Station.