Maki-do Cave, Limestone cave in Niimi, Japan
Maki-do is a limestone cave in Niimi with passages stretching approximately 450 meters underground through various rock formations. Inside, an underground lake is illuminated by LED lights to enhance the natural features.
A hunter discovered the cave during the Edo period while pursuing a raccoon, marking the first documented cave discovery in Japanese history. This accidental finding eventually led to the site becoming recognized as a natural wonder.
The poets Tekkan Yosano and Akiko Yosano visited in 1929, and Akiko gave it the name Maki-do, meaning cave of many wonders. This name reflects how the place came to be seen as a destination for poetry and reflection.
The cave maintains a constant temperature of about 15 degrees Celsius year-round, so a light jacket or sweater is wise to bring. Guided walks cover 400 meters in approximately 20 minutes, making the outing easy and comfortable for most visitors.
Inside the cave, the red Ryugu Bridge in Japanese style crosses the underground lake with lights that shift colors throughout the day. This structure creates a striking contrast between traditional architecture and the cave's modern lighting.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
