There are 3 entrances to Akiyoshido, namely the Front Entrance, Black Valley Entrance, and Elevator Entrance. Please note that the admission time of the Black Valley entrance and elevator entrance is only until 4:30 pm
Not applicable to other offers
Please present your e-voucher QR code at the service offices in Akiyoshido, Yamaguchi Prefecture, and exchange for a physical ticket for admission
Monday 08:30 - 16:30
Tuesday 08:30 - 16:30
Wednesday 08:30 - 16:30
Thursday 08:30 - 16:30
Friday 08:30 - 16:30
Saturday 08:30 - 16:30
Sunday 08:30 - 16:30
To reach Akiyoshido Cave by public transportation, you can take a bus from Shin-Yamaguchi Station, Yamaguchi Station, or Higashi-Hagi Station. For example, from Shin-Yamaguchi Station, board the Bocho Kotsu bus bound for Akiyoshido (秋芳洞). The journey typically takes around 40-50 minutes, offering direct access to the cave entrance.
Akiyoshido Cave is designated as a Special Natural Monument of Japan due to its immense scale and remarkable geological features. It is one of the country's largest limestone caves, boasting a vast interior and a main sightseeing route over a kilometer long. Its preservation of pristine stalactite formations and unique underground landscapes contributes to its national importance.
Akiyoshido Cave features a variety of impressive geological formations. Visitors can see towering stalactites hanging from the ceiling and stalagmites rising from the floor, some forming intricate columns. Notable formations include "Hyakumaigan" (a terrace of limestone pools), "Kasa-zaka" (a slope resembling an umbrella), and the powerful "Obi-iwa" (a massive rock resembling a belt).
Most visitors spend approximately 60 to 90 minutes exploring Akiyoshido Cave. This allows ample time to walk the well-maintained sightseeing route, appreciate the various geological formations, and take photographs. If you wish to visit the nearby Akiyoshidai Plateau or other attractions, allocate additional time for the entire area.
Akiyoshido Cave stands out due to its sheer scale, featuring one of Japan's longest underground sightseeing routes, extending over a kilometer. Its massive caverns, such as the expansive Hyakumaigan (Hundred Plates) area, are uniquely vast. The cave also maintains a constant temperature year-round, offering a comfortable environment for exploring its diverse and ancient geological formations.
Key sights within Akiyoshido Cave include the massive "Hyakumaigan" (Hundred Plates) limestone terraces, resembling giant rice paddies. The striking "Kasa-zaka" (Umbrella Slope) and the impressive "Obi-iwa" (Belt Rock) are also highlights. Visitors can marvel at various stalactites, stalagmites, and underground streams that have shaped the cave's breathtaking landscapes over millennia.
Akiyoshido Cave offers relatively good accessibility for a natural cave. The main sightseeing route features paved pathways and wooden walkways, making it manageable for most visitors. While there are some stairs and slopes, alternative routes or elevators are available for certain sections to assist visitors with limited mobility or strollers. It's advisable to check specific accessibility details beforehand.
The Akiyoshidai Plateau, located above the cave, is Japan's largest karst plateau and shares a significant geological connection with Akiyoshido Cave. The plateau's limestone bedrock, sculpted by rainwater over millions of years, is responsible for creating the cave's intricate formations. It's a key part of the national park, offering scenic beauty and further insight into the cave's natural environment.