Nippara Limestone Cave

Our first trip to Japan was in July, 2016. I wouldn’t suggest going to Japan in the summer, it is oppressively hot and humid which made it difficult to spend much time outside. We got a break from the intensity of the heat when our friends who live in Tokyo took us to see the Nippara Limestone Cave. They picked us up at our hotel and took us on a drive into the mountains. The scenic drive was beautiful and we passed through tiny villages and saw lush green forests along winding, narrow mountain roads. I spotted many little suspension bridges that seemed so old that they appeared to have become part of the foliage.

It took several hours to get to the cave so we stopped for lunch along the way.

The cave is in a beautiful setting in the mountains with a stream nearby. It is the largest limestone cave in the area. We spent well over an hour wandering around once inside.

There are bright, colorful lights as you enter the cave.

There are many little nooks and crannies with Buddha statues and places to worship if one is so inclined.

We were fortunate to have been treated to this day out by friends with a car. If you plan to visit, I suggest renting a car since there is so much to see along the way. In addition, I suggest visiting during the week since it gets busy on the weekends.

The cave is damp and cool, even in the intense summer heat, so be sure to bring a jacket or sweater. There is a small admission fee as well.

As always, please leave a comment, I would love to hear from you.

Stay safe and healthy!

Tricia