Ioki Cave: A Journey into a Fern-Adorned Natural Monument
Explore Ioki Cave: A mystical fern paradise carved by ancient seas, featuring diverse flora, serene waterfalls, and Ghibli-esque scenery in Kochi.
Ioki Cave, located in Aki City, Kochi Prefecture, is a natural wonder formed by ocean waves millions of years ago. This 40-meter cave leads into a canyon with over 40 species of ferns, creating a Ghibli-esque landscape. A stream flows through the cave, leading to waterfalls and a tranquil, primeval experience.
A brief summary to Ioki Cave
- 117 Ioki, Aki, Ioki, Kochi, 784-0045, JP
- +81887-34-8344
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Wear sturdy, waterproof shoes or rent rain boots at the tourist information center due to the damp conditions inside the cave.
- Visit during the fall (late November) to enjoy the added beauty of cosmos fields near the cave.
- Keep an eye out for fossilized shellfish embedded in the cave walls, a reminder of the cave's marine origins.
- Be aware that snakes and bats may be present in the cave area.
Getting There
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Public Transport
The most convenient way to reach Ioki Cave is by taking the Tosa Kuroshio Railway Gomen-Nahari Line to Ioki Station. From the station, it's approximately a 5-minute walk to the cave entrance. The Tosa Kuroshio Railway operates local trains along this line. A single fare from Nahari Station to Ioki Station costs around ¥620 [Current exchange rates as of July 28, 2025, indicate ¥620 is approximately $4.00 USD].
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Driving
Ioki Cave is located a short distance from National Route 55, east of Aki City. From Kochi Ryoma Airport, the drive takes about 40 minutes. Parking is available at the Ioki Cave parking area, near the Aki Tourist Information Center. Be aware that the roads leading directly to the cave entrance can be narrow. Parking is free. There are no toll roads on the immediate approach to the cave.
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Walking
From Ioki Station, exit and walk towards National Route 55. Turn right and walk a short distance until you see signs for Ioki Cave. Follow the signs to the cave entrance, which is about a 5-minute walk from the station. The walk is straightforward and well-marked.
Discover more about Ioki Cave
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