Miyako Island: Pumpkin Limestone Caving & Kayaking

Miyako Island is home to a captivating natural wonder – the Ryugu Castle Cave. This limestone cave boasts a mesmerizing display of pumpkin-shaped stalactites that hang from the ceiling, creating a truly unique atmosphere. Visitors can explore this geological marvel on foot, climbing and navigating the rugged terrain. But the real highlight? Canoeing and kayaking through the cave’s waters to reach the aptly named "Pumpkin Hall" – where the formations can be admired up close. While personal photography is restricted, guides provide free photo data, allowing you to capture this extraordinary experience. Ready to uncover Miyako Island’s hidden gem?

This experience made our list of the 10 Best Canoe And Kayak Experiences In Miyakojima.

Key Points

• Explore the remarkable limestone formations, including the captivating pumpkin-shaped stalactites, in the Ryugu Castle cave on Miyako Island.
• Navigate the cave by climbing up and down the rugged limestone terrain and access the "Pumpkin Hall" chamber by canoe.
• Enjoy a refreshing swim at the end of the cave and capture photos using waterproof cameras, while respecting the natural environment.
• Seasonal and tide level considerations affect the tour schedule, with options available in spring, summer, fall, and winter.
• Prices start from €60.75 per person, with no upfront payment required, and a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Explore the Mysterious Limestone Cave

Visitors can explore the mysterious Ryugu Castle cave on Miyako Island, where they’ll discover remarkable limestone formations. Traversing the cave involves climbing up and down using one’s entire body.

The highlight is the "pumpkin hall", accessible by canoe, where visitors can admire the unique pumpkin-shaped stalactites. Guides provide all necessary caving and canoeing equipment, including life jackets and special shoes, ensuring a safe and comfortable experience. In winter, wetsuits are available.

While photography is allowed at the cave entrance, it’s prohibited inside to preserve the delicate environment. This activity offers a unique opportunity to take in the mysterious atmosphere of this limestone wonder.

Pumpkin-Shaped Stalactites and Unique Atmosphere

The pumpkin-shaped stalactites found in the Ryugu Castle cave on Miyako Island captivate visitors with their unique and mesmerizing appearance. Suspended from the cave’s ceiling, these distinctive formations resemble plump, orange gourds, creating an otherworldly atmosphere.

Exploring the cave by canoe allows adventurers to witness these remarkable stalactites up close, as they float beneath the dangling rock formations. The cave’s mysterious ambiance, enhanced by the pumpkin-like shapes, adds to the overall enchanting experience.

Visitors can take photos of the stalactites at the cave entrance, though photography is prohibited inside the cave itself to preserve its delicate natural wonder.

Canoeing and Kayaking in the Cave

Canoeing and kayaking allow adventurers to access the inner sanctum of the Ryugu Castle cave, where they can admire the pumpkin-shaped stalactites up close. Paddling through the calm waters, guests:

1. Reach the "Pumpkin Hall," a mesmerizing chamber adorned with these unique formations.
2. Enjoy a refreshing swim at the end of the cave, surrounded by the limestone’s mysterious atmosphere.
3. Capture stunning photos of the cave’s natural wonders using the waterproof cameras provided by the guides.

This tranquil water-based exploration complements the thrill of navigating the cave’s rugged terrain on foot, creating a well-rounded adventure through Miyako Island’s geological marvels.

Climbing and Navigating the Limestone Terrain

Adventurers must climb up and down the rugged limestone formations to fully explore Ryugu Castle cave. Using their whole bodies, they navigate the steep, uneven terrain, carefully maneuvering through tight spaces.

The cave’s pumpkin-shaped stalactites create a mysterious atmosphere, adding to the sense of adventure. Guides equip participants with the necessary safety gear, including life jackets and special shoes, to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience.

Though challenging, the thrill of scaling the limestone walls and accessing hidden chambers is part of the cave’s allure. Visitors can capture stunning photos at the cave’s entrance, though photography is prohibited inside to preserve the site’s natural beauty.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Safety Equipment and Gear Provided

Safety equipment and specialized gear are provided to ensure the well-being and comfort of participants throughout the Ryugu Castle cave exploration. This includes:

• A life jacket to ensure safety while navigating the water by canoe.
• Special shoes with good traction to grip the limestone surfaces during the climb.
• Wetsuits during the winter months to protect against the cool cave temperatures.

Plus, participants receive free photo data captured by the guide’s waterproof camera, allowing them to document their exciting journey through the pumpkin-shaped stalactites and mysterious atmosphere of the limestone cave.

Seasonal and Tide Level Considerations

Meeting and dissolution times for the Ryugu Castle cave exploration may vary depending on seasonal conditions and the tide level. The event is held rain or shine, but if the tide level reaches 90cm or higher, the schedule may change. To help guests plan their visit, here’s a handy table outlining the seasonal considerations:

Season	Meeting Time	Dissolution Time
Spring	9:00 AM	12:00 PM
Summer	8:00 AM	11:00 AM
Fall	10:00 AM	1:00 PM
Winter	11:00 AM	2:00 PM

Guests should be aware of these potential changes and plan accordingly for a memorable and safe adventure in the pumpkin limestone caves of Miyako Island.

Pricing and Booking Information

Prices for the Miyako Island pumpkin limestone caving and kayaking adventure start from €60.75 per person. To book, simply reserve your spot with no upfront payment. You can also take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.

Here’s a quick summary of the booking process:

1. Reserve your spot online or over the phone.
2. Pay later, with no deposit required.
3. Cancel for free up to a day before the activity.

This flexibility ensures you can plan your trip with ease, without any financial commitment until the last minute. Secure your place now and discover the mystery of Ryugu Castle cave at your own pace.

Photographic Opportunities and Restrictions

Visitors to the Miyako Island limestone caves can capture stunning photographs, though some restrictions apply. The photo-worthy highlights include the pumpkin-shaped stalactites and the overall mysterious atmosphere of the caverns. However, photography is only allowed at the cave entrance – not inside the caves themselves.

The guides provide free photo data taken with waterproof cameras, allowing travelers to document their canoeing and caving experiences without concern. While impressive visuals abound, respect for the natural environment means that personal photography is limited to protect the delicate ecosystem of the limestone formations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Pets Allowed on the Tour?

Pets are not allowed on the tour. The tour operator does not permit pets to accompany participants for safety and environmental reasons during the caving and kayaking activities.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?

According to the activity description, there doesn’t appear to be a minimum age requirement for participants. The tour provides all necessary safety equipment, so children can likely join with adult supervision.

Can I Bring My Own Camera/Phone Inside the Cave?

Photos are only allowed at the cave entrance, not inside. Participants cannot bring their own cameras or phones into the cave due to safety and environmental preservation concerns.

What Should I Wear for the Caving and Kayaking Activities?

For the caving and kayaking activities, it’s recommended to wear comfortable, lightweight clothing that dries quickly, such as athletic wear, and closed-toe water shoes or sandals. Wetsuits are provided in winter to keep warm.

Is There an Option to Just Visit the Cave Without the Kayaking?

Yes, there is an option to just visit the limestone cave without the kayaking portion. Visitors can explore the cave on foot and see the pumpkin-shaped stalactites, though they won’t be able to access the "pumpkin hall" by canoe.

Recap

Miyako Island’s Ryugu Castle Cave offers a captivating caving and kayaking adventure. Visitors can explore the limestone cave, admiring the pumpkin-shaped stalactites, and then canoe to the "Pumpkin Hall" for a closer look. While photography is restricted, guides provide free photo data, allowing guests to document this unique geological wonder. With seasonal and tide level considerations, this adventure provides a memorable experience in a stunning natural setting.

You can check if your dates are available here: