[Okinawa] Is this really Japan? A journey to discover the ancient forests and memories of life in Okinawa's "Valley of Gangara"

In the southern part of Okinawa's main island, there is a place that will give you a deep and quiet impression that goes beyond just sightseeing. It is the "Valley of Gangara", which was formed when a limestone cave collapsed hundreds of thousands of years ago. You cannot wander around here freely on your own, and you are only allowed to enter the sacred area on a tour accompanied by a professional guide. An adventure that transcends time and space with the light of a lantern The tour begins at the mysterious "Cave Cafe", a limestone cave that has been turned into a cafe. The first thing you will be given here is a water bottle that will be your companion on your adventure. The soft light of the lantern handed to you in front of the cave will take you from the everyday to the extraordinary. Following the guide's guidance, you will step into the valley and find yourself in another world filled with subtropical plants and ancient vitality. [Ufushu Gajumaru]🌳 A huge banyan tree that can be said to be the symbol of the valley. The countless aerial roots that stretch up to the sky are like art of life itself. Standing before its overwhelming presence, a sense of awe for nature wells up within you. [Memories of the Ancients] 🕵🏻♂️ It has been pointed out that this valley may have been the residential area of the Minatogawa people, who are said to be the roots of the Japanese people. When you see the actual excavation site and the cave ceremonial site where prayers are still offered, you can feel the magnificent passage of time spanning tens of thousands of years. Time to suddenly think about who you are The dense forest, the sound of dripping water, the cool air of the cave. The light of the lantern not only illuminates the beauty of nature. When you are in a landscape that has not changed for tens of thousands of years, you are enveloped in the feeling that "my existence is just a moment in this vast flow of time." It is a mysterious time when your daily worries feel insignificant and you quietly reflect on yourself and your future. Not only do you see beautiful scenery, but you also come into contact with the memory of the earth and the mystery of life and face yourself. The Valley of Gangara will add an unforgettable and deep page to your trip to Okinawa. [Preparing for your adventure] Reservations required: Guided tours are by reservation only. Don't forget to make a reservation in advance on the official website❗️ 📍Location: 202 Tamagusuku Maekawa, Nanjō City, Okinawa Prefecture 🚉Access: About 30 minutes by car from Naha Airport. Opposite Okinawa World. 🙍♂️Clothing: Comfortable shoes and clothing that are easy to move in are recommended. Tour information: Duration is about 1 hour and 20 minutes. *Guide, lantern, and drink are included. #Valley of Gangara #Okinawa trip #Okinawa sightseeing #Okinawa power spot #Ancient forest #Stalactite cave #Gajumaru #Ufushu Gajumaru #Time to face yourself #History of Okinawa #Nanjō City #Reservation required #Cave cafe #Nature #Southern Okinawa main island