Kawachi no Kaza-ana

Kawachi no Kaza-ana is a limestone cave system with multiple levels in Shiga Prefecture in northern Japan. The first two levels are developed for visitor exploration and display geological formations across more than 200 meters of passages.

The cave opened to visitors in 1922 and is part of the Ryozen massif within the karst landscape of the Ryozensankai region. This karst system formed over millions of years through water erosion in limestone.

The name refers to wind holes, reflecting how air moves naturally through the passages. Visitors can feel these drafts, especially deeper inside the system.

The cave is open daily, with visiting hours varying by season. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for narrow passages and slippery surfaces in places.

The interior maintains a constant temperature around 12 to 13 degrees Celsius year-round, favoring the growth of specific mineral formations. This stable climate creates a distinctive environment for cave geology.

GPS coordinates: 35.25165,136.35190

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:41