Guida
Hida Great Limestone Cave is a sightseeing cave located in Nyukawa Town, Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture, with a total length of approximately 800 meters. A unique feature is its location at an altitude of 900m, making it one of the highest sightseeing caves in Japan. The average year-round temperature inside the cave is approximately 12°C, making it a popular destination for escaping the summer heat. Visitors can enjoy the breathtaking beauty of natural formations illuminated by a magical light display.
This cave was formed over approximately 250 million years. This region was once an ocean, where limestone was created from coral and fossils. Due to subsequent crustal movements, it became land, and the erosion caused by rain eventually formed the current cave structure. The exhibits also include fascinating historical episodes, such as the display of 'returned gold bars' that were once stolen but later returned.
The cave is divided into three areas (Cave 1 to Cave 3), each offering a different landscape:
While enjoyable year-round, it is highly recommended to visit during the hot summer months (April to October) to enjoy the natural air conditioning. Since the average temperature is around 12°C, it is useful to bring a light jacket even in summer.
You can enjoy a walking tour to observe various natural formations like icicle-shaped stalactites. Additionally, the museum features historical exhibits, including replicas of gold bars and parts of the actual gold that was returned, providing a touch of local history.
Located in Nyukawa Town, Takayama. To reach the cave, you can take a local bus to the 'Chonotsukuchi' bus stop and then use the free shuttle bus. Please note that it is about an 8-minute walk from the parking lot to the 3rd exit.