How to get to and play in Ishigaki Island limestone caves! Ishigaki Island resident staff will give you a thorough explanation!

Hello everyone! Would you like to experience something a little different in Ishigaki Island with tropical resorts? Did you know there are several limestone caves in Ishigaki Island? The biggest and most famous among them is Ishigakijima limestone cave.
This article introduces Ishigakijima limestone caves.

 

 

What is Ishigakijima Cave?

 

 

Ishigakijima limestone cave is a large scale limestone cave with a spacious interior, so it is a recommended sightseeing spot for a group visit. Ishigakijima limestone cave was created more than 200,000 years ago, and it is believed to have been formed to this scale over the years. There are many unusual stalactites and fossils inside the cave, which will be introduced in detail later. The caves are also illuminated, and the harmony of natural and man-made beauty is very attractive.

 

 

How to get to Ishigakijima Cave

 

 

Ishigaki limestone cave is located in a very accessible place, about 8 minutes by car from the city center and about 30 minutes by car from the New Ishigakijima Airport. It is also a good place to stop by when you have some free time.

 

 

■If you are accessing by car

 

 

From downtown Ishigaki, take Prefectural Route 208 and head north for a while to get there. It is recommended to go there by car as there are 35 free parking lots available, but if you are worried during the busy season, a cab will be no problem. If you are accessing from the city center, we recommend that you visit for the price of 1,000 yen.

 

 

■If accessed by bus

 

Take the Higashi Bus near Ishigaki Port (Route ⑦ Yoshiwara Line) and get off at the "Shizen-mura Iriguchi" bus stop." From the "Shizenmura Iriguchi" bus stop, the Ishigaki Island limestone caves are about 800 meters away, so you can reach them on foot in about 10 minutes.

 

 

More information about Ishigakijima Cave

 

 

There are several limestone caves on Ishigaki Island, and the Ishigakijima limestone cave is the largest at 3.2 km in length. Only 1/5 of the cave (660m) is open for walking, but the inside of the cave is like a beehive, so it seems wider than it actually is. The cave is like a plaza in places, and there are many interesting sights such as unusual stalactites and fossils. The caves are illuminated, creating a fantastic world. It is one of the rare limestone caves in Japan and is a good place to take pictures.

 

 

Ishigaki limestone caves were formed when the earth's crust rose and rose in what used to be the sea. Therefore, you can see fossils of underwater coral, giant clam, and sea creatures in some places. Even though it is the largest limestone cave in Ishigaki Island, you can visit it in 30 to 40 minutes. There are slippery places and steep stairs in the cave, so it is recommended to wear comfortable shoes.

 

 

How to Play at Ishigakijima Cave

 

 

The Ishigaki Island limestone caves are a must-see for a stroll in the caves. Ishigaki Island limestone caves are full of attractions. Some of them are introduced below.

 

 

The Fairyland Plaza

 

 

There are a number of plazas inside the limestone caves, and the first one you will reach is the "Fairyland Plaza.
You can see stone pillars extending from the top and bottom. The stalactites, made of calcium carbonate, sparkle when light hits them, making them appear more beautiful and shining than in other caves.

 

 

The Sculpture Forest of the Gods

 

 

Stone pillars stand in a solid visual line as if they were artificially created. The name "stone pillars" comes from the fact that they are as beautiful as if they were created by God. When you see art created by the power of nature in front of you, you will find yourself absorbed in the sight of it. The indescribable beauty of this place is sure to move you.

 

 

Totoro stalactite

 

 

The stalactite is so named because it is shaped like Totoro from "My Neighbor Totoro," one of Ghibli's films. The two thin stalactites extending from the large, round stalactite like Japanese ears are Totoro's very own. It is a rock with a mysterious atmosphere as if it is about to start moving, and since it is located near the exit, you will encounter it at the end of enjoying the cave. There are many photo spots in Ishigakijima limestone cave, and this is one of the most popular spots, so don't miss it!

 

 

Ishigaki Island limestone cave has several spots where you can enjoy outside of the cave. There is a promenade around the Ishigaki Island limestone caves. Tropical plants and fruit bearing trees are growing around the promenade. You can enjoy the Okinawan atmosphere of tropical hibiscus, bougainvillea, mango, banana, and dragon fruit.

 

 

There are some unusual creatures such as coconut crabs and goats, so please take a walk around. Ishigaki Island limestone cave also has a handmade experience and a restaurant. There are two handmade experiences: "Plaster Shisa color painting experience" where you can paint the Shisa in your favorite color and "Dream catcher strap making experience" where you can make a good luck charm. Reservations must be made a day in advance, so be sure to make your reservations early!

 

 

 

The Ishigaki Shokudo (Ishigaki Island Restaurant) is located next to the stalactites. At Ishigakijima Shokudo, you can enjoy local cuisine using ingredients from the island such as Yaeyama soba beef soup and Okinawan specialty bitter gourd. The people at the restaurant are all at home and make you feel very comfortable.

 

 

 

summary

 

We introduced Ishigaki Island limestone caves. How was it? Ishigaki Island limestone cave has a charm that other limestone caves do not have, which is the beauty of the coexistence of the illumination and the mystery of nature that has a history of tens of thousands of years. The following are the recommended points of Ishigakijima limestone cave.

 

 

Please check the above and visit Ishigakijima limestone cave.
Thank you for reading to the end.

 

 

 

This article was written by.

Hello! I'm Niwa-chan, your source for all things Ishigaki Island. I have loved to be in touch with nature since I was a child, and I am especially fascinated by the rich natural environment of Okinawa. Currently based in Ishigaki Island, I provide information on how to enjoy activities such as snorkeling, SUP, and kayaking, as well as the hidden charms of the island.

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