Explore the Cave Adventure Course at Abukuma Cave! A Complete Guide to the Must-See Highlights

Have you heard of Abukuma Cave in Fukushima Prefecture? Abukuma Cave is a limestone cave formed naturally over approximately 80 million years. Spanning 600 meters in total length, the cave is filled with an abundance of stalactites—said to be the most impressive in the Orient—with a wide variety of formations.

Inside Abukuma Cave, there are numerous uniquely named spots, each with its own character and appeal. In this article, we’ll thoroughly introduce the breathtaking wonders of Abukuma Cave and highlight the best points to look out for!

How to Get to Abukuma Cave

Abukuma Cave is located in Tamura City, Fukushima Prefecture. If you are traveling by car, take the Ban-etsu Expressway from the Koriyama Junction on the Tohoku Expressway, and it is about 15 minutes from the Ono Interchange. Alternatively, take the Ban-etsu Expressway from the Iwaki Junction on the Joban Expressway, and you will also arrive in about 15 minutes from the Ono Interchange.

If you are traveling by train, transfer from JR Koriyama Station on the JR Tohoku Shinkansen to the Ban-etsu East Line, get off at Kamimata Station, and take a taxi for about 5 minutes. Alternatively, from JR Iwaki Station on the JR Ban-etsu Line, transfer to the Ban-etsu East Line, get off at Kamimata Station, and take a taxi for about 5 minutes. Please note that IC transportation cards cannot be used at Kamimata Station. If you are traveling by train, be sure to purchase a paper ticket before boarding!

Takine Palace

“Takine Palace” is the largest chamber in Abukuma Cave and is located at the highest point. It stands 29 meters tall and is one of the main attractions. This chamber is divided into three levels and features a variety of rare stalactites that can only be seen here, such as the “Crystal Curtain,” a thin sheet-like formation that glows when light passes through it; the “Shield,” a disc-shaped stalactite; and the “Cave Coral,” formed by water that bounces off surfaces. Observing these rare formations up close makes you feel as though you've entered another world.

Every winter, the “Abukuma Cave Takine Palace Concert” is held. The sounds of instruments like the guitar and ocarina resonate throughout the cave with natural acoustic effects, creating a magical and dreamlike atmosphere. It’s highly recommended.

Ryugu Palace

“Ryugu Palace” is a chamber approximately 13 meters high. Here, you can observe various stalactite formations that are not found in Takine Palace. These include the “Mushroom Rock,” whose surface irregularities resemble a mushroom, and the “Christmas Tree,” which looks like a fir tree—making it endlessly fascinating to look at. There is also the rare “Rimstone,” which has formed over many years of flowing water into terraced, rice field-like shapes. You can feel the force of nature up close, and its raw power is truly overwhelming.

Moon World

“Moon World” is the final destination in Abukuma Cave. Here, you can view all of the main stalactite formations. The area is equipped with a stage-style lighting system that illuminates the cave in various colors. Using this system, a scene is created that simulates the sunrise emerging from the darkness, transitioning to sunset and fading into twilight. The scenery is breathtakingly beautiful. This dreamlike atmosphere truly feels like stepping into another world. It is the perfect finale to your journey through Abukuma Cave.

Exploration Course

In addition to the regular course, Abukuma Cave also offers an “Exploration Course” route that visitors can take. On this course, you can enjoy a sense of adventure as you travel along a more rugged path compared to the general route. You’ll pass through narrow sections where you need to crouch to get through and cross log bridges, making for an exhilarating experience. There are also points where you can observe the stalactites from a closer distance than on the regular course. This is highly recommended for those who want to feel a stronger sense of adventure. However, as the footing is uneven in many areas, please proceed with caution. Be sure to wear comfortable clothes and shoes that are suitable for walking.

The Exploration Course is available for an additional 300 yen on top of the regular admission fee.

As of December 2023. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Irimizu Limestone Cave

The Irimizu Limestone Cave is a cave designated as a National Natural Monument. It is located about 10 minutes by car from Abukuma Cave.

The cave extends for 900 meters in total and is divided into three courses: A, B, and C, starting from the entrance. Course A is 150 meters, Course B is 450 meters, and Course C is 300 meters. Courses B and C are largely untouched by human development, so visitors proceed using the light of flashlights or candles. You may find yourself wading in cold water up to your knees or crawling on all fours, making for a very authentic caving experience.

As you go deeper, the courses become more challenging, but you’ll also encounter various stalactite formations such as “Music Cave,” “Deep Water Cave,” and “Pumpkin Rock.” For those full of adventurous spirit, we highly encourage trying Courses B or C.

Please note that those attempting Courses B or C will get wet and dirty along the way, so a change of clothes is necessary. Candles, rubber sandals, and raincoats are available to rent at the ticket counter. Also, for Course C, a guide is required. Up to five adults can join per guided session. Reservations are necessary, so be sure to plan ahead.

A Famous Stargazing Spot

The area around Tamura City, where Abukuma Cave is located, is known as a famous stargazing destination. The entire Abukuma Highlands is renowned in Fukushima Prefecture for its exceptionally beautiful night sky. Astronomers have even referred to it as “a treasure trove of starry skies.” Capitalizing on this environment, the area around Abukuma Cave was established as “Hoshinomura” (Star Village) in 1992. At the heart of it is the Hoshinomura Observatory, where visitors can gaze upon the vast and magnificent night sky. A planetarium is also available indoors for those who want to enjoy the stars regardless of the weather. Be sure to visit Star Village and experience the awe of the cosmos firsthand!