Kagekiyodo Cave: A Samurai's Hidden Retreat

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Discover Kagekiyodo Cave: A samurai's hidden sanctuary with stunning geological formations and thrilling exploration.

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Kagekiyodo Cave

Explore Kagekiyodo Cave, a natural monument in Mine, Yamaguchi, steeped in legend as a refuge for the defeated samurai, Taira no Kagekiyo. Discover stunning limestone formations, ancient fossils, and a unique adventure course within this captivating subterranean world.

A brief summary to Kagekiyodo Cave

3108 Mitochoaka, Mine, Mitochoaka, Yamaguchi, 754-0302, JP
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Monday 8:30 am-5:15 pm
Tuesday 8:30 am-5:15 pm
Wednesday 8:30 am-5:15 pm
Thursday 8:30 am-5:15 pm
Friday 8:30 am-5:15 pm
Saturday 8:30 am-5:15 pm
Sunday 8:30 am-5:15 pm

Local tips

Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the cave floor can be wet and slippery.
Akiyoshidai is one of the largest karst plateaus in Japan, so plan to visit the Akiyoshidai plateau and Akiyoshido Cave while in the area.
Bring a light jacket, as the cave maintains a constant temperature of around 17°C (63°F).

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Getting There

Car

From the Edo IC on the Ogori-Hagi Road, accessible via the Chugoku Expressway's Mine-Higashi JCT, Kagekiyodo Cave is approximately a 5-minute drive. Limited parking is available near the cave. Be aware that parking may take longer during the summer.
Public Transport

From Higashi-Hagi Station, take the Bocho Bus bound for Akiyoshido and disembark at the Taisho-do bus stop. From there, it's about a 20-minute walk to Kagekiyodo Cave. Bocho Bus also operates infrequent buses between Hagi (Higashi-Hagi Station), Akiyoshidai and Akiyoshido. From Shin-Yamaguchi Station, the Bocho Bus to Akiyoshido Cave is about 45 minutes. The Japan Rail Pass is valid on JR buses but not on Bocho buses.

Discover more about Kagekiyodo Cave

Kagekiyodo Cave, a designated natural monument, lies nestled in Mine, Yamaguchi Prefecture. This captivating limestone cave stretches 1.5 kilometers and is divided into two distinct sections: a 700-meter sightseeing course and a 400-meter dark exploration route. Legend claims that Taira no Kagekiyo, a samurai general of the Taira clan, sought refuge here approximately 800 years ago after his defeat in the Battle of Dan-no-Ura, giving the cave its name.The cave, discovered roughly 1,000 years ago, showcases the remarkable artistry of nature. Visitors can marvel at the beautifully patterned walls and ceilings, adorned with fossils of fusulina, corals, and seaweed. The sightseeing course is mostly flat and accessible, even offering wheelchair rentals. For the adventurous, the exploration course beckons with a thrilling journey into the cave's dark depths, relying solely on flashlights for illumination.Ikime Hachiman Shrine, a rare find within a limestone cave, is also located inside. Legend says that Kagekiyo enshrined Ikime Hachiman to give thanks for the healing of his injured eye after he washed it with clean water in the cave. It is believed to be effective against eye diseases.Whether you choose the well-lit sightseeing path or brave the darkness of the adventure course, Kagekiyodo Cave promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Yamaguchi's natural wonders. A camping site and a hot spring facility are located right beside the cave.