tourism・experience・eat 2023.12.17
A power spot inside a cave!? “Valley of Gangala” with a mysterious atmosphere
Writer
三木 愛美
Photographer
小橋川 恵里奈
He mainly shoots magazines, advertisements, portraits, etc.
When you think of Okinawa, the first thing that comes to mind is the crystal clear sea. However, there are also plenty of tours to enjoy the lush nature.
At the Valley of Gangala in the southern part of the main island, you can enjoy a walking tour through the forest. On the tour, you can see plants and creatures unique to the subtropics, as well as banyan trees that are over 150 years old. As you go deeper into the forest, you will arrive at a power spot. Maybe you’ll discover Okinawa that you don’t know about.
Let’s go on a fascinating tour where you can feel the wonders of nature’s vitality!
Meet at a cave with a cafe in the Valley of Gangala
Valley of Gangala is a tour where you can enjoy a walk through the forest. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. Reservations are required, and there are four departures a day. The walk is approximately 1km with ups and downs, so please wear comfortable sneakers. The tour will continue unless there is bad weather.
As you go down the gentle slope from the parking lot, you will find a cave with a dark, dark space. After registering at the cave, the guide will give you an explanation of the tour.
The Valley of Gangala was created when a limestone cave collapsed hundreds of thousands of years ago.
In fact, it is also the place where the Minatogawa people, an ancient people said to be the ancestors of humans, were excavated about 18,000 years ago. Also, deep in the forest there is a limestone cave that is said to be a power spot. After learning about Minatogawa people and limestone caves, the tour begins!
The Valley of Gangala is a jungle that makes you feel as if you have traveled back in time to 18,000 years ago!?
As you progress through the forest called “Akagi Forest,” you will see plants unique to the subtropics growing naturally. You can also see seasonal creatures such as butterflies and limestone cliffs. The valley of Gangala is pristine and looks like a jungle. Perhaps the “Minatogawa people” were also running around in ancient times.
The air in the forest is clear, there are streams, and there are plenty of negative ions. If you listen closely, you can hear the sounds of trees swaying and birds chirping. One of the attractions is that you can feel relaxed while walking around. Feel the energy of nature throughout your whole body.
What is the power spot that you will arrive at as you walk through the forest of the Valley of Gangala?
The more you walk through the Valley of Gangala, the more you feel like you are one with nature.
As you go deeper, you will arrive at the entrance of the limestone cave. As you walk down a dark path with a lamp in hand, a stalactite will appear. Saninushi Utaki is a power spot. You can find out why it is said to be a power spot after going there!
A place surrounded by the mystical atmosphere of the Valley of Gangala. “Oshu Banyan”, estimated to be over 150 years old
As you climb the mountain path and pass through the tunnel, you will see a large “Ufush Banyan”.
Banyan is also famous as a tree that brings happiness. The large banyan tree, which seems to be reaching toward the sky, is estimated to be over 150 years old. It is said that the roots are dangling and move several centimeters every year. If you touch the tree gently, it will give you power.
The people of Minatogawa may have seen the same view in the Valley of Gangala!? The view from the hill is amazing!
As you go through the maze-like path, you will come across stairs that lead to higher ground. When I climbed the stairs, I saw the townscape along the coast. You can also see the Pacific Ocean horizon. Did ancient people see the same scenery? Please enjoy the spectacular view from here.
After admiring the scenery, head to your final destination, Mugeidong. This place is where sarcophagus graves and human bones from the late Jomon period, about 2000 years ago, were excavated. The tour ends after a review with the guide.
The Valley of Gangala has a lot to offer. Among them, I would recommend the large “Oshi Banyan” (Ufush Banyan). The sight of it stretching into the sky is majestic and gives you a great sense of energy.
Please come and discover a new charm of Okinawa in the Valley of Gangala, where rich nature remains.
*Entry to the Valley of Gangala is only possible through a reservation-based guided tour. Please make a reservation in advance.
INFORMATION
Tour start times vary depending on the day
1,500 yen for students (junior high school students and above)
Let's enjoy Okinawa to the fullest~OKINAWA TOUR
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