Otaki Limestone Cave holds remains from a Jomon-era (14000 BC to 10th century BC) settlement. Besides the archaeological significance, the cave boasts striking geological formations, including high-purity stalactites, worm-eaten ceilings, and impressive stalagmites. The cave is relatively easy to explore, with few steep inclines, making it suitable for all ages.
To reach the cave entrance, you can take a rare wooden cable car that travels along a steep cedar-covered slope. Inside the cave, visitors can marvel at a variety of stalactites shaped by abundant groundwater. The highlight of the cave is the "Great Waterfall," a mystical underground waterfall with a 30-meter drop, considered one of the largest subterranean waterfalls in Japan.
A combined entry ticket for both the Otaki Limestone Cave and the nearby Jomon Cave, just a 3-minute drive away, is available. Additionally, there are special combo tickets that include the cave's specialty, "Kodai-yaki" (ancient grilled fish). You can also enjoy fishing at a nearby pond, where you can have the fish cooked on-site.
Operating Hours: 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
Closed: Year-end and New Year holidays, weekdays in January and February
Admission Fees: Adults: 1,000 yen, Teens: 800 yen, Children: 500 yen (other set discounts available)
Access: 15 minutes by car from Gujo Hachiman Station on the Nagaragawa Railway or Gujo Hachiman IC