The Mt. Shihoyama Wind Cave

Warm in the Winter, Cool in the Summer! Natural science in action!

What is a wind cave?
A wind cave is created when a grotto or crevice allows wind to pass through a mountain.
The difference in air pressure and temperature underground means that the air leaving the wind cave feels cooler and stronger than in the surrounding area.

The wind cave here in Nio was discovered in the early 1900s, and remains at about 15℃ (59°F) year-round. This made it the perfect location to raise temperature-sensitive silkworms in the era before modern methods of temperature regulation were invented.
Another wind cave has been discovered in Kagawa Prefecture, in Mt. Takahachi, which is used to study geology as well as historical methods of agriculture.

• Hiking Route Map
• Park within the guardrails marked by this sign.