Mikurodo Cave

The Mikuroto Cave is one of the historically significant sites along the Shikoku Pilgrimage. Located right along the coastline before the 24th Temple, Hotsumisakiji (最御崎寺) in Kochi Prefecture, this cave was formed over the ages from waves crashing against dirt and stone. The vibrant sound of the waves heard in the cave was selected as one of the “100 Soundscapes of Japan” by the Ministry of Environment. Combined with sounds from neighboring caves, they were named “the sounds of waves of Cape Muroto and Mikuriya Cave”.

The Buddhist monk Kukai trained and lived in this cave in the early Heian period. During this period in his early life, he chose his name from the sky and sea as viewed from the cave, with “ku” meaning sky (空) and “kai” meaning ocean (海). He eventually obtained enlightenment in one of the caves nearby. An impressive statue of Kukai can be found within the vicinity.

The entry to the cave was closed in 2015 due to falling rocks that raised safety concerns for its visitors. After safety measures and protective structures were implemented, the cave reopened in May, 2021. When visiting this site, please observe the opening hours of the cave and any signs of warning posted around the cave to ensure your safety.