Ryugaiwa Cave (Hamamatsu City, Shizuoka Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Ryugashido Cave is a tourist limestone cave located in Hamamatsu City, Shizuoka Prefecture. It is a natural cave formed over many years when groundwater dissolved limestone. Walking paths and lighting have been installed for tourists, allowing visitors to enjoy the fantastical stalactites in a stable environment throughout the year. The interior of the cave is lit up and has easy-to-see signs, making it an easy-to-visit spot for first-time cave explorers and families.

Highlights

• Diverse stalactite formations: You can observe up close the diverse formations created by nature, such as stalactites (shaped like icicles) hanging from the ceiling and stalagmites rising from the floor.
• Lighting effects: The lighting accentuates the shadows and colors of the stalactites, creating a fantastical atmosphere that is different from daytime.
• The cave's large halls and narrow passages alternate, giving you a sense of adventure. There are information boards at each spot where you can learn about the geology and formation process.
• Comfortable all year round: The cave is less affected by the outside air, so it is cool in the summer and relatively warm in the winter, making it enjoyable all year round.
• A location that is easy to combine with sightseeing in the surrounding area: Another attractive feature is that you can visit nearby tourist spots such as Lake Hamana, hot springs, and castles.

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• Nearest major station: JR Hamamatsu Station (Hamamatsu Station is the nearest major access point).
• Public transportation: You can access the area by bus or taxi, but please note that the number of buses and transfers may be limited, so we recommend checking the timetable in advance.
• Car: Visiting by car is convenient. Parking lots are available in the surrounding area, so you can arrive in a short time by rental car or private car (please note that parking lots tend to be crowded on weekends and holidays, so please leave well in advance).
• Tourist route: The location makes it easy to plan a day trip that combines the Lake Hamana area, Hamamatsu Castle, Flower Park, and more.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Tour of the cave: It usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes to walk around the entire course inside the cave (this may vary depending on your walking speed and whether you take the time to read the explanations).
• Sightseeing in the surrounding area: If you plan to enjoy the area as well as other sightseeing spots, you should allow half a day to a full day.

Nearby spots

• Lake Hamana (Lake Hamana sightseeing, tourist facilities, gourmet food)
• Hamamatsu Castle (Castle Ruins Park, Historical Walk)
• Flower parks and botanical gardens (seasonal flowers)
• Hot springs (hot springs and day-trip hot spring facilities around Lake Hamana)
• Local roadside stations and specialty shops (Hamamatsu specialties such as eel)

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• Crowds: Visitors increase on weekends, public holidays, summer vacation, and long weekends, and you may have to wait in the parking lot or at the entrance. If possible, it is best to visit on a weekday or right after opening.
• Clothing and shoes: There are some slippery areas and steps inside the cave, so we recommend wearing comfortable shoes. It can often feel cool in the summer, so it's a good idea to bring a jacket.
• Safety and Manners: Please do not enter fenced or restricted areas, do not touch exhibits, take your trash with you, and be considerate of other visitors when using flash photography or talking loudly.
• Photography: Photography for sightseeing purposes is often permitted, but please follow the facility's rules regarding the use of flash photography and tripods.
• Physical condition: The underground can be quite humid, so if you are concerned about your physical condition, please do not push yourself and take breaks as you tour.

*Please check the official website or on-site in advance for the latest opening hours, admission fees, transportation information and event information.