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Ibaruma Sabichi Cave: A Coastal Wonder

Explore Japan's only limestone cave leading to the sea, with stunning rock formations and tranquil beaches on Ishigaki Island.

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Ibaruma Sabichi Cave is a unique limestone cave on Ishigaki Island, Japan, notable for being the only one in the country that opens directly to the sea. Explore its interior to discover stunning rock formations and emerge onto a beautiful beach.

A brief summary to Ishigaki Island Ibaruma Sabichi Cave

Local tips

  • Check the tide chart before visiting; low tide is the best time to explore the cave and beaches.
  • Wear comfortable footwear as the cave floor and coastal paths can be uneven.
  • Bring water shoes to fully enjoy the beach and rocky areas.
  • Consider visiting as part of a day trip to the northern part of Ishigaki Island, combining it with a trip to Hirakubosaki Lighthouse.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From New Ishigaki Airport, drive west on Route 390 for approximately 15 kilometers. As you approach Ibaruma, look for signs indicating Ibaruma Sabichi Cave. Turn right onto the smaller road and follow the signs for about 2 kilometers to the parking area near the cave entrance. Parking is free. The drive takes about 40 minutes from the airport and a little over 20 minutes from the New Ishigaki Airport.

  • Public Transport

    From Ishigaki Bus Terminal, take a bus heading towards Ibaruma. The journey takes approximately 40 minutes. Ask the driver to let you off at the nearest bus stop to the cave. From the 'Ibaruma' bus stop, walk north for about 20 minutes, following the signs to the cave. Bus tickets cost around ¥330-¥490.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available from New Ishigaki Airport and Ishigaki City. The taxi ride from the airport to Ibaruma Sabichi Cave takes approximately 45 minutes and costs around ¥7,100. From Ishigaki Port Ferry Terminal, a taxi ride will be approximately 25 minutes and cost around ¥3,300. Taxi fares are estimates and can vary.

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Discover more about Ishigaki Island Ibaruma Sabichi Cave

Ibaruma Sabichi Cave, also known as Sabichi Limestone Cave, is a captivating natural attraction located on Ishigaki Island in Okinawa, Japan. Formed approximately 370 million years ago through seafloor uplift, this cave stretches about 237 meters and is the only limestone cave in Japan with an opening to the ocean. Inside the cave, visitors can marvel at the spacious interior featuring stalactites, stalagmites, dripstones, cave coral, and helictites. Fossils of ancient shells and corals are embedded within the formations, offering a glimpse into the island's geological past. The cave also holds archaeological significance, with evidence suggesting its use by ancient inhabitants and the discovery of artifacts. Some even consider the cave a spiritual site, with a pond inhabited by giant eels and a rock believed to house a deity. Emerging from the cave, you'll find yourself on a picturesque coastline with intriguing rock formations and beaches. To the left, a maintained path leads to several quiet beaches, offering a sense of seclusion. Be mindful of the tides, as high tide and strong winds may limit beach access.

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