Ryugu Sea Cave, Izu Travel Guide

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Discover the heart-shaped Ryugu Sea Cave in Shimoda, a natural wonder formed by volcanic activity and wave erosion on the Izu Peninsula.

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Ryugu Sea Cave

Ryugu Sea Cave, located in Shimoda, Shizuoka, is a natural sea cave formed by wave erosion over millennia. It's famous for its heart-shaped appearance when viewed from above and the stunning skylight created by a collapsed cave ceiling.

A brief summary to Ryugu Sea Cave

Touji, Shimoda, Touji, Shizuoka, 415-0029, JP
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Ryugu Sea Cave.

Wear comfortable shoes as the ground inside the cave can be uneven and rocky.
Visit during midday for the best sunlight streaming through the skylight.
Combine your visit with a trip to the adjacent Toji Sand Skiing Field for some added fun.
Check the bus schedule from Izukyu-Shimoda Station in advance, as services are infrequent.

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Explore Ryugu Sea Cave on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Ryugu Sea Cave, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Izukyu-Shimoda Station, take the Tokai Bus bound for Toji. Get off at the 'Ryugu Sea Cave' bus stop. The bus ride takes approximately 17 minutes. From the bus stop, it's a short 3-minute walk to the cave entrance. Bus fare is approximately ¥450.
Taxi

From Izukyu-Shimoda Station, a taxi ride to Ryugu Sea Cave takes about 15 minutes. The estimated fare is between ¥2,500 and ¥3,100.
Driving

From Izukyu-Shimoda Station, drive south on Route 136 for approximately 5 kilometers. Turn left at the 'Tagyu Entrance' sign and follow the signs towards Tagyu Beach and Ryugu Sea Cave. Limited free parking is available near the cave. Paid parking is also available nearby for around ¥500.

Discover more about Ryugu Sea Cave

Ryugu Sea Cave is a captivating natural formation on the Izu Peninsula, sculpted by the relentless power of the ocean. Over countless years, waves have carved into the coastal cliffs, creating this unique sea cave. The cave's defining feature is its large opening, a skylight formed when part of the ceiling collapsed due to erosion. This opening, approximately 50 meters in diameter, allows sunlight to stream into the cave, illuminating the clear, cobalt blue waters below.From above, the cave remarkably resembles a heart, making it a popular destination for couples and those seeking good luck in love. A well-maintained promenade offers visitors a vantage point to appreciate this unique shape. Descending into the cave via a steep stone staircase, visitors can explore the small beach area within and marvel at the layered volcanic lapillus walls, colored cinnamon by the minerals within. The contrast between the rock and the blue sea creates an otherworldly atmosphere.Ryugu Sea Cave is more than just a scenic spot; it's a testament to the geological forces that have shaped the Izu Peninsula. The cave's formation is linked to underwater volcanic activity and the shifting of the Earth's crust over millions of years. Nearby, visitors can enjoy the Toji Sand Skiing Field, where they can sled down a sand dune.