Hida Great Limestone Cave & Ohashi Collection Museum: A Mysterious Underground World Shaped by the Power of Nature

Unlock the mysteries of an ancient ocean hidden deep underground.

The Hida Great Limestone Cave’s mesmerizing formations began about 250 million years ago from the sedimentation of marine organisms. At that time, the region was underwater, and corals and foraminifera accumulated, eventually forming limestone. Tectonic shifts later transformed this area into land, giving rise to the Japanese Alps. Rainwater then dissolved the limestone over the ages, forming the cave as we see it today.

Stalactites are created when rainwater containing carbon dioxide dissolves limestone and then redeposits it inside the cave. You’ll find hanging stalactites, upward-growing stalagmites, and columns where both meet. These formations grow incredibly slowly—taking decades to centuries to gain just a centimeter—showcasing the grandeur of nature’s slow, persistent work.

The type of rock and water movement are essential to cave formation. Limestone caves like this one, formed through water erosion and dissolution, are known as “karst caves.” The beautiful formations of Hida Great Limestone Cave are a result of time, water, and geological forces.

Must-see spots where mystery and romance intertwine.

As you step into the Hida Great Limestone Cave, you’ll be immersed in an enchanting world sculpted by nature over millennia. The cave is divided into three main sections—Cave 1 through Cave 3—each offering unique highlights.

In Cave 1, “Night View of Ryugu” showcases a magical scene of blue-lit underground water and pale limestone. Nearby, the “Palace of Dreams” mesmerizes visitors with its abundance of straw-like stalactites called “soda straws.”

Connecting Cave 2 and Cave 3 is the “Lovers’ Tunnel”, a romantic pathway illuminated with seven-colored LED lights—a favorite among couples. In Cave 3, the “Moon World” features bold rock crevices formed by cave corals, offering a true sense of exploration.

Other highlights include the rare twisted helictite stalactites, the largest stone column in Asia, and the charming Waterfall of Happiness flowing within the cave.

Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring a jacket to fully enjoy this incredible subterranean journey.

Underground romance, icy art, and the taste of perfectly aged sake.

The Hida Great Limestone Cave offers more than just natural beauty—it’s also a place of romance and reflection. Near the entrance, the “Lover’s Sanctuary” monument is a popular spot for couples to declare their love, complete with a heart-shaped sculpture and a “Bell of Vows.”

Inside the cave is the Cave-Low Temperature Sake Cellar, which takes advantage of the stable 12°C environment to mature sake and shochu. These drinks develop rich, mellow flavors over time and make excellent souvenirs.

From early January to early March, visitors can witness the “Ice Gorge”, a seasonal winter phenomenon. Towering icicles over 30 meters tall create a stunning landscape, and during Saturdays in February, the area is lit up to create a truly magical, icy world.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic escape, a sake-lover’s delight, or an unforgettable winter view, the Hida Great Limestone Cave offers an array of seasonal wonders. Be sure to visit and experience the ever-changing beauty of this natural marvel.

A journey through time awaits at the Ohashi Collection Museum.

After exploring the Hida Great Limestone Cave, don’t miss the Ohashi Collection Museum, located right next door.

This private museum showcases over 1,000 works of art, jewelry, and fossils collected by businessman and cave discoverer Sotokichi Ohashi during his travels around the world.

One of the most fascinating items is a gold ingot that was stolen in 2007 and later miraculously recovered. Learning the backstory adds an extra layer of intrigue to the exhibits. The collection includes treasures from Egypt, the Middle East, Europe, and Asia, allowing visitors to travel across cultures and time periods in a single visit.

Admission to the museum is included with your cave ticket. This is a rare opportunity to enjoy both the awe-inspiring beauty of nature and the cultural richness of human history all in one place.