Furen Cave

Furen Cave is a limestone cave in Usuki that stretches roughly 500 meters through underground chambers filled with stone formations. The passages feature countless stalactites and stalagmites of varying sizes that create intricate designs throughout the different sections.

The cave was discovered in 1926 and immediately recognized as a Natural Monument due to its geological significance. Its exceptional limestone formations quickly established it as an important site for scientific research and study.

The main chamber is named Ryugujo after the legendary Dragon Palace from Japanese folklore, connecting visitors to the region's mythological traditions. This naming reflects how the cave's natural beauty inspired cultural storytelling among local communities.

The site is about 20 kilometers from Saeki City and maintains steady temperatures throughout the year. Guided tours are available to help visitors understand the stone formations and geological features.

The cave contains rare helictite formations that grow sideways and upward, creating twisted shapes measuring up to 10 centimeters. These unusual crystal structures stand out because they defy the normal downward pull of gravity that shapes typical stalactites.