Quasi-National Park, Hiraodai

This nature park is one of Japan’s three greatest karsts. The plateau at 350 - 600m above sea stretches 6km north and south and 2km east and west. The limestone, looking like a flock of sheep, is a curious sight.

Hiraodai’s limestone is believed to be made of ocean creatures (coral and fusulina) near the equator 340 million years ago. They died, turned into limestone, and earth’s crust shifted it over to the current Hiraodai. As the limestone got eroded by rain, it has formed the peculiar karst over the infinite ages. You can also walk on a trekking course with limestone or explore limestone caves.

To protect, foster, and pass it on to the next generation, Hiraodai Nature Observation Center was established. It is a great place to start your Hiraodai tour here. The display includes Hiraodai’s nature, landscape, flowers and photos in a diorama. Learn about Hiraodai before going to the field.

In the basement, there are nearly 200 caves. One of them, Senbutsu Limestone Cave, is estimated to be over 1000m-long. A mysterious world stretches underground as well. Visiting different caves in the “caving experience” is a popular activity.

Sola Land Hiraodai is an amusement spot with campgrounds, glamping, park and restaurants, etc. cluster.