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Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine

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Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine (Japan)

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The Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine in Shimane Prefecture was one of the world's leading silver producing sites during the 16th and 17th centuries, accounting for approximately one-third of the global silver production at its peak. The mine was discovered in 1526 by merchant Kamiya Jutei and later placed under the direct control of the Tokugawa Shogunate, highlighting its immense economic importance to Japan. Silver from Iwami Ginzan fueled international trade, impacting economic systems across East Asia and Europe. The mine is particularly noted for its sustainable forestry practices, which provided the vast amounts of timber needed for smelting without devastating the surrounding natural environment. In 2007, Iwami Ginzan was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site for its technological innovations and well-preserved cultural landscape. In addition to the mining tunnels, the site encompasses the historic town of Omori, featuring traditional residences and temples. Although mining operations officially ceased in 1923, the mine's legacy is preserved today as a center for ecotourism and historical research. The facility stands as an outstanding example of early modern industry and responsible resource management in Japan.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C23611162024252115105
Rain mm938611411913318425512617811995117

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?
The Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine is an incredibly important UNESCO World Heritage site that historically dominated global silver production from the sixteenth century onwards. It serves as a monumental symbol of Japan's immense pre-modern industrial and economic influence.
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Visiting
Visitors are generally allowed to carefully explore designated parts of the historic mining tunnels and the preserved traditional townscape surrounding them. Certain sensitive archaeological zones and unmaintained shafts remain strictly off-limits for essential safety and preservation reasons.
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Where to view it
Excellent overviews of the historic mining landscape can usually be appreciated from the scenic hiking trails that gently weave through the surrounding forested mountains. The old wooden administrative buildings also offer beautiful perspectives on the valley's cultural layout.
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Local products
Local vendors in the nearby restored town of Omori typically sell fine silver crafts, intricate traditional souvenirs, and regional Shimane delicacies. Artisanal workshops often provide a chance to purchase hand-forged metal goods inspired by the region's rich heritage.
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Active season
The heritage site is broadly accessible year-round, but it is particularly striking and comfortable to hike through during the gentle spring and vivid autumn months. The forested areas can become quite humid and heavily overgrown during the peak of the Japanese summer.
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Nearby
Exploring the extensive silver mine complex pairs wonderfully with a cultural visit to the famous Izumo Taisha Grand Shrine located relatively nearby. Visitors can also easily incorporate a deeply relaxing stay at the historic Yunotsu Onsen hot springs town along the scenic coast.

Geography

Coordinates
35.10000, 132.33300

Facts

  • Produced approximately one-third of the world's silver during the 16th century.
  • Discovered in 1526 by the Japanese merchant Kamiya Jutei.
  • Covers an area of approximately 442 hectares in Shimane Prefecture.
  • Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2007.
  • Mining operations officially ceased in 1923 after nearly 400 years.
  • Contains over 600 hand-dug mining tunnels, known as Mabu.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Iwami Ginzan Silver MineIwami Ginzan Silver Mine12 km · NExplore →
Izumo-Taisha ShrineIzumo-Taisha Shrine45 km · NWExplore →
IzumoIzumo51 km · NWExplore →
HiroshimaHiroshima55 km · EExplore →
HatsukaichiHatsukaichi56 km · EExplore →
MiyajimaMiyajima60 km · EExplore →
TsuwanoTsuwano79 km · SEExplore →
MatsueMatsue84 km · NExplore →

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Sights in the town Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine (1)

Kono Onsen🌿 nature

Kono Onsen is a geothermal hot spring located near the historic Iwami Silver Mine.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Is the Iwami Silver Mine a World Heritage site?
Yes, it was added to the UNESCO list in 2007 due to its significance in the global silver trade.
Which tunnel can be visited?
The Ryugenji Mabu tunnel is open to visitors and shows manual mining techniques.
What is the best way to explore the area?
You can rent bicycles to travel between the historical town of Omori and the mine.
How much time should be planned?
Allow at least 3-4 hours for the mine and a walk through Omori.
Where is Iwami Ginzan located?
In Shimane Prefecture, in the western part of the main island of Honshu.
Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine: where is it located?
Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine is located in Japan.
Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.
Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine: why is it worth visiting?
The Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine in Shimane Prefecture was one of the world's leading silver producing sites during the 16th and 17th centuries, accounting for approximately one-third of the global silver production at its peak.
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Part of the Oki Islands, featuring dramatic volcanic coastlines and crystal-clear waters.
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City of peace, marked by the 1945 atomic bombing.
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The gateway to the sacred Miyajima Island, known for traditional crafts and beautiful coastal scenery.
Miyajima — Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine (Japan)
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Miyajima, the 'Island of Gods,' is famous for the Itsukushima Shrine's floating torii gate and its friendly, free-roaming deer.

History & landmarks

Izumo — Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine (Japan)
Izumo
Izumo is famous for the Izumo Taisha, one of Japan's oldest and most important Shinto shrines.
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The 'Little Kyoto of San'in,' known for its colorful koi fish swimming in the street canals and its picturesque mountain setting.

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A large silver mine that operated from the 16th to the 20th century.
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One of the oldest and most important Shinto shrines in Japan.
Adachi Museum of Art and Garden — Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine (Japan)
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Although modern, the museum's garden is famous for being voted the best Japanese garden in the country for over a decade.