Hiraodai Karst Plateau & Caves is located in Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka Prefecture. It is one of the three largest karst plateaus in Japan, situated at altitudes between 400 and 600 meters above sea level. The plateau stretches 6 km from north to south and 2 km from east to west.     Yougunbaru was so named because the limestone rocks scattered across the vast meadow resemble a flock of sheep. Along with dolines (conical hollows) and limestone caves, they create a truly distinctive landscape. The plateau offers a unique view in each of the four seasons: the dramatic “burnt field” (Yamayaki) in spring, fresh and vibrant greenery in early summer, and the serene, dry plains of autumn.     Limestone Caves There are three main limestone caves in the Hiraodai Karst Plateau, each offering its own unique features. Among them, the Senbutsu Limestone Cave is the most prominent. Senbutsu Limestone Cave　 As the largest cave in the Hiraodai Karst Plateau, it extends approximately 900 meters, meandering toward the northeast. The cave is characterized by its narrow, ravine-like shape, with a maximum width of 10 meters and a ceiling reaching up to 15 meters in height.​ Mejiro Limestone Cave This is the longest cave in the Hiraodai Karst Plateau, stretching over 2 km in total length. The highlight of this cave …

Hiraodai Karst Plateau & Caves, in Fukuo…の続きを読む