Abukuma Caves, Tamura

Abukuma Cave was discovered on August 15, 1969 and opened to the public in 1973. The site was subsequently designated as Natural Heritage. This limestone cave system formed from 200 million year old strata of coral and foraminifera that were deposited on the ancient seafloor, with limestone layers later uplifted and carved by groundwater erosion over 80 million years.

The cave network extends for 3 kilometers underground, with 600 meters currently accessible to visitors. Abukuma Cave contains what is considered the greatest number and variety of stalactites in Asia, formed by continuous mineral deposition from underground streams. It stands as the only limestone cave in Fukushima Prefecture, offering visitors a rare geological experience in the region.

The main visitor route takes approximately 40 minutes to complete and features several notable formations and chambers. The largest hall, Takine Goten (Takine Palace), serves as the cave's centerpiece. The "Tsuki no Sekai" (Moon World) represents the first limestone cave in Japan to incorporate a stage lighting control system, creating dramatic sunrise and sunset effects. Other significant features include the 13-meter-high Ryuguuden hall and formations with evocative names like the "Christmas Tree," described as Asia's largest stalagmite.

For adventurous visitors, an additional Exploration Course extends the experience by 120 meters and takes approximately 5 minutes to complete. The cave maintains comfortable conditions year-round and requires no special physical preparation, making it accessible to visitors of all ages and fitness levels.

The nearest railway station is Kanmata Station on the JR Ban'etsu East Line. From Koriyama, the journey takes 45 minutes and costs 760-770 yen. From Iwaki, trains take 50 minutes and cost 970-990 yen. A taxi from Kanmata Station to the cave requires approximately 20 minutes and costs around 1,200-1,600 yen. The train journey is covered by the Japan Rail Pass and JR East Tohoku Area Pass. Car rental facilities are available at Iwaki, Koriyama, and Fukushima stations for those preferring to drive.

Admission fees are 1,200 yen for high school students and adults, 800 yen for junior high school students, 600 yen for elementary school students, with children under elementary school age entering free. The optional Exploration Course costs an additional 200 yen.