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Summer Freeze: Escaping the Heat Inside Mt. Fuji’s Ancient Ice Cave

Visitors walk along an icy wall inside the Narusawa Hyoketsu Ice Cave in Narusawa, Yamanashi Prefecture, while summer heat scorches outside. Considered a national natural monument located at the foot of Mt. Fuji, this 150-meter-long cave was formed by lava flows originating from the eruption of one of Mt. Fuji’s side volcanoes, more than 1,100 years ago. With a year-round average temperature of…

Summer Heat Inside Mt. Fuji’s Ancient Ice Cave

Visitors are braving the sweltering summer temperatures outside to escape to the cool confines of the Narusawa Hyoketsu Ice Cave. Nestled at the foot of Mount Fuji, this 150-meter-long cave has been a national natural monument since ancient lava flows created it over 1,100 years ago.

Maintaining a steady 3°C year-round, the cave provides a stark contrast to the scorching heat outside. The frozen formations within - massive ice walls and pillars formed by water droplets that freeze as they descend from the ceiling - offer a mesmerizing sight for those brave enough to venture inside.

The cave, formed by volcanic activity, stands as a fascinating natural wonder, drawing tourists from near and far who seek relief from the oppressive summer heat.

Written by urgent.news from The Japan News by The Yomiuri Shimbun's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.

Read the original at japannews.yomiuri.co.jp →

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