Car: Approximately 20 minutes from Hokubo IC on the Chugoku Expressway, or approximately 30 minutes from Niimi IC.
Public Transportation: Take a bus bound for Mankeido Cave from JR Ikura Station (approximately 40 minutes). Get off at the Mankeido Cave (terminal) stop, and it's a 5-minute walk from there. Show route
Op.Hours
8:30 AM to 5:00 PM (Last entry at 4:30 PM)
Cld.Days
No days off
Fee
Adults (High school students and above): ¥1,000, Junior high school students: ¥800, Children: ¥500, Elementary school children and under: Free
INFO
Please note that heavy rain may cause flooding in the cave passages. We also reserve the right to temporarily close the cave due to heavy rain. Thank you for your understanding.
Mankeido Cave, located in Atettai, Niimi City, Okayama Prefecture, is a 450-meter-long horizontal cave designated as a National Natural Monument. The interior is a mystical space adorned with various stalactites, stalagmites, and columns, all formed by nature over countless years. The "Lovers' Spring" deep within the cave is particularly noteworthy, known as a "sacred place for lovers" due to its heart-shaped appearance.
Mankeido Cave's allure extends beyond its enchanting atmosphere. The cave maintains a constant temperature of around 15°C (59°F), making it a popular summer retreat. Its warmth in winter ensures comfortable visits year-round, making it ideal for families and couples.
In 1929, the poet couple Yosano Tekkan and Yosano Akiko visited and praised the cave as "a cave full of wonders," leading to its current name. Besides the diverse stalactites, the cave also served as a filming location for the movie *Yatsuhaka Mura* (The Village of Eight Tombs).
Mankeido Cave is a precious tourist destination where you can experience the mystery and beauty of nature, along with a touch of history. Be sure to visit!