🗺️ Nihara Limestone Cave日原鍾乳洞

Nihara Cave is a limestone cave located in the Okutama area of western Tokyo. It has a total length of 1,270 meters and a height difference of 134 meters, making it the largest in the Kanto region, designated as a natural monument by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government. This site once thrived as a sacred place for mountain worship and has now become a popular tourist destination. The natural cave consists of the "Old Cave," which is said to have been practiced by Kōbō Daishi Kūkai, and the "New Cave," which was accidentally discovered in 1962. The visit takes about 40 minutes. Inside the cave, there are various uniquely shaped stalactites, which are precious rocks formed over hundreds of thousands of years. The colorful lights not only illuminate the dim cave but also create a dreamlike and mysterious atmosphere. Inside the cave, there is a "Suikinkutsu" that echoes beautiful sounds, allowing visitors to enjoy the mysterious and spectacular stalactite scenery while listening to the dripping water that resembles the sound of a water harp. The temperature inside the cave is maintained at around 11°C year-round, providing warmth in winter and coolness in summer.

The largest limestone cave in the Kanto region. It takes about 40 minutes to an hour to walk around the cave. The temperature inside the cave remains around 11°C year-round. Due to the large amount of water droplets produced during rainy days and after rain, it is recommended to bring a raincoat. It is advisable to wear comfortable shoes for walking when visiting.