Hiraodai Karst Plateau & Caves, in Fukuoka Prefecture
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.
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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.
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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 is its massive monolithic ceiling, a rare and unique geological
structure that is seldom seen in other limestone caves.
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Ojika Limestone Cave
Known as the “Footprint of Dinosaurs,” this cave is exceptionally rare in Japan.
The adventure begins with a 25-meter vertical drop at the entrance. Once you
descend to the bottom, a horizontal underground passage opens up, revealing
the hidden, mysterious depths of the Hiraodai Karst.
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