Ryugu Sea Cave is a small natural cave in Shimoda and a popular place to go in Japan. This natural cave formed from volcanic lava and infamous waves from Pacific Ocean over a long period of time. The cave has two curves which makes it look like a heart from above and side. The cave located in Southern Izu peninsula of Shizuoka Prefecture.
Because of its heart shaped figure, it is said that this cave will bring good luck in your love life if you visit the spot and make wishes related to love and romance. This legend along with its romantic heart shape look makes it one of the popular attraction site in Shimoda. There is a small beach like area inside of the cave. To access the cave you have to go down using a steep stone staircase by foot.
How to visit this cave?
By car from Tokyo it takes about 5 hours and 30 minutes to reach this location. By train and then bus it takes about 4 hours. If you go by train and bus it is around 10,000 yen one way. From Izukyu-Shimoda station it takes about 20 minutes and cost 450 yen one way.
Ryugu Sea Cave – Entry Fees and Address
Admission fee to enter the cave is free. There is a free parking near the spot. However, the free parking space is limited and it is occupied most of the time. There is also a paid parking nearby as well but it will cost about 500 yen. Paid parking has 20 parking spaces.
Address: Touji, Shimoda-shi, Shizuoka prefecture 415-0029.
Website: https://english.izugeopark.org/geosites/ryugukutsu/
When to visit Ryugu Sea Cave?
You can visit the cave any season unless there is a bad weather warning. To enjoy the scenic beauty of the cave from inside and its surroundings, perhaps Summer is the best season to visit the cave. During this time you can enter the sea water that is located inside the cave. During Winter season it is bit colder and you may not enter the sea water but observe the cave opening from a distance. Under the sunlight it is still beautiful.
Some Handy Tips
Some handy tips before visiting this sea cave are – Check the weather forecast before visiting the cave. A sunny day with less cloud is a perfect atmosphere to enjoy the cave at its fullest. Visit between 11:00 and 14:00 if possible. If you are visiting with children stay careful when going down to the cave since you have to go down using the steep stone staircase.
From above the cave, explore and enjoy the stunning scenic beauty around it. You can enjoy the ocean view and there is also a heart shaped small pool at the side of the cave.
For nature lovers, Ryugu Sea Cave is a nice place to go in Japan. If you have travel itinerary around Shimoda in Shizuoka Prefecture, do not forget to visit this marvelous gift of nature with your dear ones and make some love wishes.
