Ryugado Cave: One of Japan’s Three Great Limestone Caves in Kochi

What kind of place is Ryugado Cave, one of Kochi’s most famous attractions?

Located in Kami City, Kochi Prefecture, Ryugado Cave is a massive limestone cave formed over 175 million years. Just 40 minutes by car from Kochi City and about 20 minutes from Kochi Ryoma Airport, it is one of Japan’s most impressive natural wonders.

With a total length of approximately 4 kilometers, the cave was shaped by rainwater that accumulated in a basin near the mountain summit and slowly carved its way through limestone over millions of years.

But Ryugado is not just a cave. It is also an archaeological site — a rare place where nature and ancient human history meet.

It is recognized alongside Ryusendo Cave in Iwate and Akiyoshido Cave in Yamaguchi as one of the “Three Great Limestone Caves of Japan.”

Why Is Ryugado Cave Special?

What makes Ryugado truly unique is that evidence of Yayoi-period (around 2,000 years ago) human habitation was discovered inside the cave.

Archaeologists found Yayoi pottery encased in calcite deposits. These mineral formations slowly covered the pottery over centuries, turning it into a one-of-a-kind historical artifact known as the “Kami no Tsubo” (God’s Pot). It is considered globally rare and academically valuable.

The cave maintains a constant temperature of about 15°C (59°F) year-round, which may have made it a comfortable living environment for ancient people.

Ryugado offers three layers of experience:

・Natural wonder
・Archaeological significance
・Scientific research

5 Highlights of Ryugado Cave

A Mystical Underground World

The cave is filled with breathtaking stalactites and stalagmites formed over immense spans of time.

One of the largest formations, Tenko-seki, stands approximately 11 meters tall and is estimated to have taken 150,000 years to form.

Another formation, called Shibori-maku, resembles a curtain gathered by string — a striking example of nature’s artistry.

Seasonal light-up events sometimes enhance the dramatic atmosphere.

A Waterfall Inside the Cave

Yes — there is a waterfall inside the cave.

The largest, called the Memorial Waterfall, exceeds 10 meters in height. It was named to commemorate the discovery of deeper cave sections beyond it in 1931.

Illuminated from below, the waterfall creates an almost otherworldly scene.

The “God’s Pot” – A Rare Archaeological Treasure

The calcite-encased Yayoi pottery found inside the cave proves that ancient people once lived here.

Unlike ordinary artifacts, this pottery has fused with the cave itself, making it scientifically priceless and unique in the world.

An Experiment Ongoing for Over 80 Years

In 1937, researchers placed pottery inside the cave to test whether it would become encased in calcite, just like the original artifact.

More than 80 years later, the bottom of the experimental pot has begun merging with mineral deposits — and visitors can see the progress.

It’s like watching geology in real time.

Shops and Restaurants Along the Approach

The pathway leading to the cave entrance is lined with local shops and restaurants, making the visit more than just a cave tour.

You can enjoy:
Handmade soba noodles
Tosa-style sushi and bonito dishes
Traditional Tosa cutlery
Handmade candles and craft workshops
This makes Ryugado a well-rounded half-day destination.

Cave Courses: Choose Your Adventure

Ryugado offers three types of courses.

Sightseeing Course (Standard Route)

・Duration: 40–60 minutes
・Price: ¥1,500 (Adults)
・Walk through a well-maintained route
・Same-day tickets available

Perfect for families and first-time visitors.

Adventure Course (Reservation Required)

・Duration: Approx. 90 minutes
・Additional ¥2,000 on top of standard ticket
・Includes crawling through narrow spaces
・Climbing wooden ladders
・Exploring in complete darkness with only a headlamp

You’ll cross log bridges, walk through water, and even encounter bats. It feels like stepping into an Indiana Jones movie.

Rental gear available (boots and coveralls).

Nishimoto Cave (Seasonal Course)

Available: April 29 – September 30

・Explore flowing underground water
・Experience authentic caving
・Reservation required

Ryugado Free Learning App

Image courtesy of the Ryugado Cave official website.

To deepen your experience, download the free app “Pocket Curator.”

The app offers educational insights into:
・Geology: How limestone caves and formations develop
・Biology: Organisms living in cave environments
・Archaeology: Yayoi-era artifacts
・Sustainability (SDGs): Limestone ecosystems and environmental awareness

Available in:
・Japanese
・English
・Traditional Chinese

It transforms your visit from simple sightseeing into an interactive learning experience.

Visiting Information

Location: Kami City, Kochi Prefecture

Hours:
・March–November: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
・December–February: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM

Parking:
・600 cars / 30 buses
・Free

Access

By Train:

・JR Kochi Station → JR Tosa-Yamada Station (Dosan Line)
・Bus to Ryugado

Final Thoughts

Ryugado Cave is not just a natural attraction — it is a place where geology, history, and adventure intersect.

Whether you’re traveling with family, exploring solo, or seeking a unique underground adventure, Ryugado offers an unforgettable experience in Kochi.

Step into 175 million years of history — and discover a world hidden beneath the surface.