Makidō (満奇洞) is one of many limestone caves located in the city of Niimi, in northwestern Okayama Prefecture, Japan.

Makidō
満奇洞
Makidō entrance
Map showing the location of Makidō
Map showing the location of Makidō
LocationNiimi, Okayama, Japan
Coordinates34°58′18.3″N 133°35′0.3″E / 34.971750°N 133.583417°E / 34.971750; 133.583417
Length450 meters
Geologylimestone
Accesspublic
Show cave opened1967

The cave is said to have been accidentally discovered by a hunter in the Edo Period. It approximately 450 meters in length with a relatively flat elevation. It contains numerous stalactites and a large underground lake.[1][2] The cave was popularized by the poets Tekkan Yosano and Akiko Yosano in 1929. It was designated an Okayama Prefectural Natural Monument in 1957 and was opened as a show cave. LED lighting was installed in 2015.

The cave was used as a filming location for the 1977 movie "Yatsuhakamura".

Access

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The immediate area is only accessible by car or bus, with a short but steep climb to the entrance. It is 30 minutes from the 313 National Highway. Buses leave from JR West Ikura Station and take 38 minutes.

References

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  1. ^ "Ikura-do / Maki-do". Japan National Tourism Organization. Retrieved 24 June 2012.
  2. ^ "Discover okayama". Archived from the original on 26 June 2010. Retrieved 24 June 2012.