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The Borakubakundai Limestone Cave (commonly known as Pumpkin Hall) in Miyakojima City has been designated as a cultural property of the city. With this designation, the total number of cultural properties in Miyakojima City, including those designated by the national, prefectural, and municipal governments, has reached 123.
What is Pumpkin Hall?
Pumpkin Hall is a natural limestone cave located in the Bora district of Gusukube, Miyakojima City. In recent years, it has become increasingly popular as a tourist destination. Its most notable feature is a large stalactite formation inside the cave that resembles the shape of a pumpkin, which is the origin of its nickname.
The cave is a brackish water area where seawater and freshwater mix, and the scenery changes with the tides. Especially during high tide, the water level rises, allowing visitors to enjoy activities such as kayaking and snorkeling.
Background and Significance of the Cultural Designation
The cultural property designation recognizes Pumpkin Hall as a geologically valuable cave and highlights its importance in understanding the natural environment and history of Miyakojima. Due to the need to preserve its unique stalactite formations while balancing tourism development, the city has increased its focus on conservation.
The Miyakojima City Board of Education plans to formulate a “Conservation and Utilization Plan” within fiscal year 2024 to establish guidelines for the preservation of the cave and the appropriate use of the site for tourism. This initiative is expected to promote sustainable tourism while protecting the natural environment.
Pumpkin Hall as a Tourist Destination
Currently, Pumpkin Hall is known as one of Miyakojima’s most popular tourist attractions. Access is available only through guided tours led by professionals. Participants wear life jackets while exploring the mysterious cave. Some parts of the cave are illuminated by natural light, creating a magical and otherworldly atmosphere. The recent cultural designation is likely to draw even more attention to the site.
Future Prospects
With the designation as a cultural property, preservation efforts for Pumpkin Hall are expected to be strengthened, and clearer rules for tourism activities may be established. The city aims to pass on this valuable natural heritage to future generations by balancing preservation and tourism use. Future developments in preservation planning and tourism strategies are drawing growing attention.
