Iconic Limestone Cave System on This Southerly Japanese Island
Okinoerabu Island, the second-most southerly of the Amami Islands , is famous for its collection of limestone caves. Located between Tokunoshima and Yoron Island and home to around 12,000 people, it is approximately 536 kilometers south of Kyushu. Much of the island lies within the borders of the Amami Gunto National Park.
Okinoerabu Island is home to 200 - 300 limestone caves considered natural treasures. A combination of natural beauty and local mysticism related to the caves makes them a must-see during a trip to the island. A 600 meter section of the cave system is open to the public, and you can visit for only 1,100 yen. Inside are breathtaking stalactite and stalagmite formations. The caves have detailed signboards written in Japanese.
Like many of the Amami Islands, Okinoerabu is a coral island, and opportunities for snorkeling and diving are abundant. Neither flora nor fauna are in short supply. Spot turtles, sea snakes, sea cucumbers, starfish, octopus, stingrays, and reef sharks in the island's blue waters alongside numerous species of coral. The island's cliffs make for an excellent hike along the ocean and offer the chance to discover numerous hidden beaches. The most popular beaches on the island are Okidomari Sea Park and Kasaishi Sea Park. Both have common Japanese beach infrastructure and campsites, but they also tend to be the busiest beaches on the island. Check out the quieter beaches, such as Sumiyoshi Beach, which has some of the island's best coral.
Okinoerabu Island is home to 200 - 300 limestone caves considered natural treasures. A combination of natural beauty and local mysticism related to the caves makes them a must-see during a trip to the island. A 600 meter section of the cave system is open to the public, and you can visit for only 1,100 yen. Inside are breathtaking stalactite and stalagmite formations. The caves have detailed signboards written in Japanese.
Like many of the Amami Islands, Okinoerabu is a coral island, and opportunities for snorkeling and diving are abundant. Neither flora nor fauna are in short supply. Spot turtles, sea snakes, sea cucumbers, starfish, octopus, stingrays, and reef sharks in the island's blue waters alongside numerous species of coral. The island's cliffs make for an excellent hike along the ocean and offer the chance to discover numerous hidden beaches. The most popular beaches on the island are Okidomari Sea Park and Kasaishi Sea Park. Both have common Japanese beach infrastructure and campsites, but they also tend to be the busiest beaches on the island. Check out the quieter beaches, such as Sumiyoshi Beach, which has some of the island's best coral.
