Akiyoshi-dai

Introducing Akiyoshi-dai

The rolling Akiyoshi-dai tablelands are about halfway between Yamaguchi and Hagi on the northern San-in coast. In this unusual landscape, the green fields are dotted with curious rock spires. Every February locals carry out the centuries-old tradition of yama-yaki (grass burning) on the plain to revitalise the vegetation. Beneath this picturesque plateau are hundreds of limestone caverns, the largest of which, Akiyoshi-dō (62-0304; admission ¥1200; 8.30am-5.30pm Mar-Nov, to 4.30pm Dec-Feb), is open to the public.

Akiyoshi-dō is of interest principally for its size; it is the largest limestone cave in Japan. The stalagmites and stalactites are not particularly noteworthy, but the hyakumai-zara layered limestone pools are remarkable. In all, the cave extends about 10km, at some points 100m wide, with a river flowing through it and a pathway that runs for about 1km. At the midpoint of the cave trail you can take a lift up to the surface, where there is a lookout over the surrounding country. There are entrances to the cave at both ends of the pathway as well as at the lift. Buses run between the two ends if you don’t want to retrace your steps. If you’re feeling claustrophobic in the cave, go for a wander along the plentiful hiking trails on Japan’s largest karst plateau.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009