See the spectacular view of the blue world at Ryusendo Cave in Iwaizumi, Iwate!

  • Iwate
  • Sightseeing
Moon Palace illuminated in blue
Ryusendo, one of the three largest limestone caves in Japan, is a spectacular spot located in Iwaizumi Town, Iwate Prefecture. There are many attractions such as stalactite caves that look like works of art created over a long period of time and an underground lake that is said to have the highest transparency in Japan. Along with the bats that live in the caves, Ryusendo has been designated a national natural treasure. Why not visit the beautiful blue world of Ryusendo?

What is Ryusendo, one of the three largest limestone caves in Japan?

Ryusendo-do is called one of the three largest limestone caves in Japan, along with Akiyoshido Cave in Yamaguchi Prefecture and Ryuga-do Cave in Kochi Prefecture. The total length of the cave is currently confirmed at 4,088m, of which 700m is open to the public. The total length of the cave is said to be over 5,000 meters. In addition, there are eight underground lakes that have been found, three of which are currently open to the public. The stalactites lit up with fantastic blue lights attract visitors.
The fantastic First Underground Lake

A fantastic underground lake with the clearest water in Japan

The biggest attraction of Ryusendo is the underground lakes, which are illuminated by mysterious blue lights. The first underground lake is 35 meters deep, the second 38 meters deep, and the third 98 meters deep. The deepest lake, the Third Underground Lake, has extremely high transparency and is sometimes referred to as "the clearest water in Japan. The Third Underground Lake is currently the last stop on the sightseeing course, but several more underground lakes have been identified and are still being investigated.
First Underground Lake Observation Deck

Mysterious stalactites created over tens of thousands of years

The caves are dotted with stalactites created by nature over tens of thousands of years. The "Moon Palace" was named after the stalactites in the cave, which remind one of the world of the moon. Visitors can enjoy the ethereal atmosphere created by the changing light in the illuminated space. The Moon Palace is densely packed with stalactites hanging from the ceiling and stalagmites protruding from the ground, allowing visitors to appreciate the beauty of formations created by nature over tens of thousands of years.
Moon Palace, lined with limestone caves reminiscent of the lunar world

The attached Ryusendo Science Museum is also recommended!

At the Yongcheonsindong Science Museum, located right next to Yongcheonsindong, visitors can learn about the formation process of the limestone caves and the ecosystem inside the caves. Ryuusen Sindo was discovered in 1967 during the widening of a prefectural road, and is now open to the public as the Ryuusen Sindo Science Museum because of its well-developed limestone caves and the traces of water flow that remain, making it academically valuable. The Ryuusen Sindo Science Museum is located on both sides of the river, and it is very likely that Ryuusendo was once a continuation of Ryuusendo.
Yongcheonsindong Science Museum

Hours required, operating hours and fees for Ryusendo

The total time required to enjoy Ryuusendo is approximately 1 hour, with the Ryuusendo site taking approximately 30 to 40 minutes and the Ryuusendo Science Museum approximately 10 to 15 minutes. If you want to take your time and take pictures in a beautiful place, please allow more time.

Please note that the hours of operation change depending on the season.

Hours of operation: Open all year round (may close temporarily due to rising water, etc.)
October-April: 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
May-September: 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM

■Fees:
Adults (high school students and older): 1,100 yen
Elementary and middle school students: 550 yen
*Fees for disabled persons and groups are available. Please check the official website for details.
Hyakumen corridor, with an anecdote that a dragon passed through to create this long and narrow path

Enjoy Ryuusendo with the proper attire!

Ryusendo Cave is a precious spot where visitors can experience the mystery and serenity of nature. The dynamic scenery of the limestone caves and the beautiful subterranean lakes will move you in ways you cannot experience in everyday life. The temperature inside the caves is cool throughout the year at approximately 10°C, so it is recommended that visitors bring a piece of textile to wear. Also, please wear comfortable walking shoes as there are wet floors and steep stairs in the cave. Please be well prepared and enjoy the beautiful Ryusendo Cave.
The official website of Ryusendo

Combine your favorite train with lodging or a day trip plan for a great travel experience!

You can make your own original trip!

The " JR East View Dynamic Rail Package " is a variable-price individual travel product available only on the web, which allows you to choose your train and accommodations freely and apply for them all at once. Depending on the timing and conditions of your application, you may be able to save even on the day of departure at the earliest! We also offer one-day trip plans! Enjoy your own trip according to your schedule and purpose.
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