Akiyoshido Cave

Akiyoshido Cave is one of Japan’s premier limestone caves and a must-see natural attraction. It opens on the southern slope of Akiyoshidai Quasi-National Park, about 100 meters underground. Above the cave spreads Akiyoshidai, Japan’s largest karst plateau. Over long periods of time, rainwater and groundwater dissolved the limestone and repeated cycles of collapse created the cavern system seen today. Designated as a National Natural Monument, the cave interior is open to sightseeing. The main tourist route is about one kilometer long, and if you stroll slowly, it takes around 1.5 hours. The cave temperature stays constant year-round at about 17°C. Because humidity is high, it can feel cooler than the number suggests. The walking route is well paved, but there are puddles and slippery sections, so be sure to wear comfortable, well-worn walking shoes. Access to Akiyoshido Cave by car is about 5 minutes from Akiyoshidai IC on the Ogori-Hagi Road via the Chugoku Expressway Minehigashi JCT. By public transportation, it is about 40 minutes by bus from JR Sanyo Shinkansen “Shin-Yamaguchi Station,” getting off at “Akiyoshido Bus Stop.” By air, it is about a 45-minute drive from Yamaguchi Ube Airport.