Valley of Gangala

The Valley of Gangala is a subtropical forest spread across a valley formed by the collapse of a limestone cave. It is not a nature park to roam freely; visits are made on reservation-only guided tours. Caves, limestone formations, and great trees overlap here, revealing a landscape that the nature of Nanjo has shaped over an immense span of time.

The highlight is the experience of shifting between darkness and light. At the cave mouth you are wrapped in cool air; move on into the forest, and shafts of light slant down between the trees. Walking with a guide's commentary, the scenery before you rises up as a story of terrain and time. On rainy days, the forest shows yet another face.

Reservations are required to join a tour. The meeting point, duration, and same-day operating status can change, so check the official website before you go. For busy seasons and same-day availability, please inquire through the official channels.

On a journey through Nanjo, pair time spent with the culture of Sefa-utaki and the gusuku (castle) sites, and the open freedom of the coast, with a walk through the forest of the Valley of Gangala — and you will feel the depth of this land all the more.