Ryugado Cave
龍河洞（Ryugado）
A colorful surprise inside of one of Japan’s largest limestone caves
One of Japan’s three largest limestone caves, Ryugado (which means “dragon river cave”) was formed over the course of 175 million years. The entirety of the cave is approximately 4 km long, with about 1 km that is open to the general public.
This otherworldly cave’s twists and turns reveal stalactites and stalagmites of all sizes. It was designated a Natural Monument of Japan in 1934 for both these stunning formations and the 100 different animals that make their home in this unique environment, as well as a Historic Site for the vessels from the Yayoi period (300 BCE- 250 CE) discovered here.
In 2019, colorful lights, projection mapping, and music were added to the main tunnel, to add an additional dimension of wonder to this majestic geological formation. The 11-meter waterfall lit up with blue lights and enhanced by original music composed to compliment the drops of water splashing delicately on the limestone is one of the highlights.
For adventure seekers who want to explore the secrets of the cave, you can book a guided tour (complete with safety gear!) that will take you to sections regular visitors can’t see. In 2021, to celebrate the 90-year anniversary of the opening of the cave, a special tour of the nearby West Water Cave has been added.
Be sure to stop by the museum on your way out, and leave yourself time to wander along the shopping street that leads up to the entrance of the cave, lined with stylish cafes and shops.
This otherworldly cave’s twists and turns reveal stalactites and stalagmites of all sizes. It was designated a Natural Monument of Japan in 1934 for both these stunning formations and the 100 different animals that make their home in this unique environment, as well as a Historic Site for the vessels from the Yayoi period (300 BCE- 250 CE) discovered here.
In 2019, colorful lights, projection mapping, and music were added to the main tunnel, to add an additional dimension of wonder to this majestic geological formation. The 11-meter waterfall lit up with blue lights and enhanced by original music composed to compliment the drops of water splashing delicately on the limestone is one of the highlights.
For adventure seekers who want to explore the secrets of the cave, you can book a guided tour (complete with safety gear!) that will take you to sections regular visitors can’t see. In 2021, to celebrate the 90-year anniversary of the opening of the cave, a special tour of the nearby West Water Cave has been added.
Be sure to stop by the museum on your way out, and leave yourself time to wander along the shopping street that leads up to the entrance of the cave, lined with stylish cafes and shops.
| Address | 高知県香美市土佐山田町逆川1424 （1424, Sakakawa, Tosayamada cho, Kami City, Kochi Prefecture, Japan） |
|---|---|
| Telephone Number |
0887-53-2144 Public Interest Incorporated Foundation Ryugado Cave Preservation Association
|
| Open | 8:30-17:00 (March-November) 8:30-16:30 (December-February) The West Water Cave is open from April 29 to September 30 |
| Closed | Open year round |
| Price | ●Sightseeing Course (Private) ・Age 15 and over : 1,200 yen ・Between age 12 and 14 : 700 yen ・Age 11 and under : 550 yen ●Adventure Course ・Sightseeing Course fee + an additional 1,500 yen ・Rental overalls/boots : 1,000 yen ・Administration fee：200 yen ●West Water Cave Course ・Sightseeing Course fee + an additional 1,000 yen ・Rental overalls/boots : 800yen ・Administration fee：200 yen ●Museum : Free *Price includes taxes |
| Directions | ●About 25 min drive from Nankoku IC on Kochi Expressway ●Short walk from Ryugado bus stop (Tosaden Kotsu Bus) |
| Website | Website |
| Map Code | 73 389 022*55 |
| Remarks | ●Adventure Course and West Water Cave Course require a reservation at least one day in advance for guided tours. ●Adventure Course takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, West Water Cave Course takes about 20-30 minutes. ●Overalls and boots can be rented for a fee. ●For the West Water Cave Course, please wear clothes you don't mind getting wet, and bring your own change of clothes and towels. ●Please check the website for entry times and precautions. |
