Travel, Trip, Journey And…Now Japan : 0068 Meikyodo Cave
Hey everyone, welcome back to MinimalLife Misaeng! I’m traveling around Japan in my car, exploring hidden gems along the coastline, and sharing my journey with you. If you enjoy road trips, nature, and unique travel destinations, don’t forget to subscribe, hit the like button, and turn on notifications so you don’t miss the next adventure!
Today, I’ve arrived at my 68th destination—Meikyodo Cave. After leaving Yura Coast, my 67th stop, I continued along the coastline, and now I’m here at this absolutely breathtaking natural wonder.
Meikyodo is a sea cave located in Kushimoto, Wakayama Prefecture, shaped over thousands of years by the relentless waves of the Pacific Ocean. The drive here was incredible—winding coastal roads, endless ocean views, and that refreshing sea breeze. And now that I’m standing in front of this massive rock formation, I can say with confidence—it’s even more beautiful in person.
The name “Meikyodo” (明鏡洞) means “Bright Mirror Cave”, and once you see it, you’ll understand why. When the sunlight hits the water at the right angle, the cave’s surface reflects like a giant mirror, creating a mesmerizing glow. It’s one of those places that feels almost surreal, as if it belongs in a fantasy world.
There are two ways to explore Meikyodo. If you take a boat tour, you can get up close and see the details of how the waves have carved the rock over centuries. The other option is to take a coastal walking trail, where you’ll get a spectacular panoramic view of the ocean. Since I’m on a road trip, I parked my car nearby and explored both perspectives—and honestly, they’re both incredible in their own way.
But Meikyodo isn’t just a beautiful place; it also has an interesting spiritual history. Some say that monks once meditated here, drawn by the peaceful sound of the waves and the hypnotic way light moves inside the cave. Standing here now, with the ocean echoing all around, I can definitely feel the special energy of this place.
If you love photography, this is a must-visit location. The deep blue ocean, the towering cliffs, and the way sunlight plays off the water create perfect natural lighting. But even if you’re not into photography, just sitting here, breathing in the salty air, and listening to the waves is an experience you’ll never forget.
So, if you’re ever driving along the southern coast of Japan, make sure to add Meikyodo Cave to your list. Whether you visit by boat or from the cliffs above, this is a hidden gem that will take your breath away. I’m so glad I made this stop on my journey, and I can’t wait to share more incredible places with you as I continue my road trip.
Alright, that’s it for today’s adventure! Next, I’m heading to Shiokaze Line (しおかぜライン), a beautiful coastal road with incredible ocean views—so stay tuned! If you’re enjoying my Japan road trip series, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and turn on notifications so you can follow me to the next destination. Thanks for watching, and I’ll see you in the next adventure!