Gyokusendo Cave - Complete Visitor Guide
Explore Asia's most beautiful limestone cave, formed over 300,000 years. Discover over 1 million stalactites in this underground wonderland.
Book Cave TicketsAbout Gyokusendo Cave
Gyokusendo Cave is one of Japan's largest limestone caves, located in Nanjo City, Okinawa Prefecture. This natural wonder was formed over approximately 300,000 years through the slow work of water and limestone. With a total length of 5,000 meters, it ranks among the most extensive cave systems in Japan, with 890 meters open to the public.
The cave houses over 1 million stalactites - the highest concentration in Japan. This dense population of formations is what earned Gyokusendo its reputation as "the most beautiful limestone cave in Asia." Stalactites grow at an incredibly slow rate of about 3 millimeters per year, making the current spectacle a result of 300,000 years of continuous growth.
Discovered in 1967 by the Ehime University Academic Expedition Team, Gyokusendo was found to be not only vast in scale but extraordinarily beautiful. It opened to the public in 1972, the same year Okinawa reverted to Japan from U.S. administration, and has since welcomed millions of visitors from around the world.
Formation of Gyokusendo
Gyokusendo's formation occurred in three main stages over hundreds of thousands of years.
Stage 1: Limestone Layer Formation (2 million+ years ago)
Coral reefs accumulated and formed the Ryukyu limestone layer. During this period, Okinawa was still underwater, and corals and shells accumulated over time, eventually compressing into limestone.
Stage 2: Cave Formation (300,000 years ago onwards)
After tectonic activity raised the land above sea level, rainwater began seeping underground and dissolving the limestone. Rainwater containing carbon dioxide is mildly acidic, chemically eroding the limestone to create cavities that became the cave system.
Stage 3: Stalactite Growth (ongoing)
As water dripped through the cave, dissolved calcium carbonate recrystallized to form stalactites. These include formations hanging from the ceiling (stalactites), rising from the floor (stalagmites), and columns where they've joined together. This process continues today.
Highlights of Gyokusendo Cave
1. The Blue Grotto
The most photographed spot in Gyokusendo is the "Blue Grotto" - an underground lake that glows with a mysterious blue color when illuminated. About 2 meters deep with exceptional clarity, the water creates an otherworldly atmosphere that makes visitors feel transported to another realm.
This stunning blue color results from a combination of mineral content in the water and strategic lighting effects. The highly pure water from the limestone source is incredibly clear and reflects specific wavelengths of light, creating this beautiful azure hue. While it's a prime photo spot, please be courteous during busy times and take turns quickly.
2. Spear Ceiling
The "Spear Ceiling" features countless soda straw stalactites hanging densely from the cave ceiling, resembling spear points descending from above. Each individual straw is thin and delicate, but their sheer number and density create an awe-inspiring sight.
Soda straws represent the earliest stage of stalactite formation. As water drips from ceiling fissures, calcium carbonate crystallizes on the droplet's surface, forming hollow tubes. Ranging from a few millimeters to several centimeters in diameter, these structures are extremely delicate. The Spear Ceiling's concentration of soda straws is geologically rare and valuable.
3. Golden Cup
The "Golden Cup" is an unusual stalagmite formation that has grown into a cup-like shape. Named for its golden appearance, this coloration comes from iron and other minerals in the water.
Standing about 1 meter tall with a flared top, this unique shape resulted from a fortunate combination of factors including water droplet patterns and cave air currents. No two stalactites are exactly alike, making this truly a one-of-a-kind natural treasure.
4. Hall of Spears
The "Hall of Spears" is one of Gyokusendo's most spacious chambers. With a ceiling height of approximately 20 meters, massive columns (where ceiling stalactites have joined with floor stalagmites) stand like pillars in a natural cathedral.
Column formation takes tens of thousands of years as stalactites and stalagmites grow toward each other and eventually connect. At Gyokusendo's growth rate, forming a complete column requires many tens of thousands of years. The Hall of Spears features columns over 10 meters tall, their scale truly impressive.
Visitor Information
Tour Route and Duration
The public tour route through Gyokusendo covers approximately 890 meters and typically takes 30-40 minutes. The walking paths are well-maintained for safe viewing, though there are many stairs requiring some physical fitness.
Tour Route Features
- Total Length: Approximately 890 meters (about 18% of total cave)
- Duration: 30-40 minutes
- Stairs: Over 200 steps
- Cave Temperature: Constant 21°C (70°F) year-round
- Humidity: Over 90%
What to Wear and Bring
For a comfortable visit to Gyokusendo, appropriate clothing and preparation are important.
Footwear
With many stairs and occasionally wet surfaces, non-slip comfortable sneakers are best. Avoid high heels or sandals.
Clothing
At a constant 21°C (70°F), the cave is cool year-round. Even in summer, bring a light jacket or wrap. Quick-drying fabrics are recommended due to high humidity.
Camera/Phone
Photography is permitted. However, avoid tripods or selfie sticks during busy times. High humidity may cause camera lenses to fog.
Other Items
Towel (for wiping sweat) and drinks (for outside the cave) are helpful. Eating and drinking inside the cave is prohibited. Keep valuables minimal for easy movement.
Best Season and Crowds
Gyokusendo can be visited year-round, but crowd levels vary by season.
| Season | Crowd Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| April - May | ★★★ | Crowded during Golden Week. Pleasant weather, ideal season |
| June | ★★ | Rainy season but comfortable inside. Relatively quiet |
| July - August | ★★★★★ | Summer vacation peak. Cool cave is popular |
| September - October | ★★★ | School trip season, crowded on weekdays |
| November - March | ★★ | Relatively quiet, leisurely viewing possible |
Avoiding Crowds: Visit right after opening (9:00-10:00 AM) or near closing (after 4:00 PM) for fewer crowds. Weekdays are generally less busy than weekends.
Experience the Mystical Underground World
Formed over 300,000 years, Asia's most beautiful limestone cave awaits. Witness the dreamlike scenery created by over 1 million stalactites. Book online to save up to 15%.
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