The cave was first explored in 1967 by a team from Ehime University.
Only about 890 meters of the 5,000-meter total length are open to the general public.
The cave is formed from coral reef limestone, a result of Okinawa's geological history as a submerged archipelago.
Internal cave temperatures remain consistently between 21 and 24 degrees Celsius regardless of the season.
The high concentration of calcium carbonate in the water creates unique 'speleothem' formations that continue to grow today.
Gyokusendo Cave is a massive limestone cavern located within the Okinawa World cultural theme park in Nanjo, Okinawa. Stretching 5 kilometers, it is the second-longest cave on the main island of Okinawa and was formed over 300,000 years ago. Visitors follow a designated 890-meter walking path that winds through the subterranean landscape. The cave is characterized by high humidity and constant dripping, which sustains active stalactite and stalagmite growth. The interior temperature remains relatively stable throughout the year, independent of external weather conditions. Portions of the path cross over underground streams that flow through the base of the cave. The site is a registered natural monument and serves as a significant geological feature of the Ryukyu Islands.
The 'Blue Fountain' section, where light illuminates the underground stream against the limestone backdrop.
Wear shoes with good grip as the limestone path is frequently wet and can be slippery.
Bring a lens cloth, as the high humidity often causes camera lenses to fog up immediately upon entry.
Visit during the shoulder seasons to avoid the peak crowds of the mid-summer Okinawan holiday periods.
Assuming the cave is wheelchair accessible; the path includes uneven terrain and stairs which make it difficult for mobility-impaired visitors.
Do not touch the stalactites or stalagmites, as natural oils from human skin can disrupt their growth process.
