Akiyoshidai Observatory & Akiyoshido Limestone Cave

OVERVIEW

Gaze out over a dramatic karst landscape from the observatory atop the Akiyoshidai Plateau and see the wonders underground after descending into one of Japan’s largest limestone caves. You will view countless limestone pinnacles from the plateau’s circular observatory, all of which were part of a coral reef eons ago. Once the sea receded, rain dissolved much of the exposed limestone, leaving behind an eerie-looking landscape like no other in Japan. Use the magnifying telescopes on the deck for an even closer look. An elevator will take you down into the depths of the Akiyoshido cave, which is filled with otherworldly stalactites and stalagmites, many of them illuminated for dramatic effect. Some of their names reflect the shapes and colors of the rock formations such as the Golden Column and the One Hundred Plates. A clear stream runs through the bottom of the cave and continually reshapes its limestone landscape.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Marvel at the odd contours and shapes in the karst landscape of the Akiyoshidai Plateau.
• Gain an understanding of the geology behind the plateau’s bizarre formations.
• Explore the massive limestone cave that lies beneath the plateau.
• See a seemingly infinite number of eerily illuminated stalactites and stalagmites.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.