Hashidate Limestone Cave, Limestone cave at Hashidate-do Temple in Chichibu, Japan
Hashidate Limestone Cave is a natural cave in the Chichibu mountains that extends about 140 meters into the rock face. Its passages are filled with natural stone formations like stalactites, stalagmites, and massive pillars of limestone.
The limestone cliff housing the cave originated from coral reefs formed about 200 million years ago during the Mesozoic era. People have used and settled in the cave and the lands below it over a long period of time.
The cave sits within the grounds of Hashidate-do Temple, where visitors follow the traditional Chichibu pilgrimage route connecting sacred sites across the region. The temple and cave together form a place where natural wonders and spiritual practice intertwine.
The cave is accessible on foot from the temple and visitors can explore it during daytime hours. The interior passages are sometimes narrow or uneven, so wearing comfortable shoes and bringing a flashlight is helpful.
This is the only limestone cave open to the public in Saitama Prefecture. The cave features multiple elevation changes throughout its passages that set it apart from other caves.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
