Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine, Iwami Travel Guide

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Discover Japan's rich mining history at Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine, a UNESCO World Heritage site with preserved mines, historic town, and cultural landscapes.

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Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine

Explore the Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Shimane Prefecture, Japan, that was active for nearly 400 years. Once a major source of the world's silver, producing up to one-third of the global supply in the 16th and 17th centuries, today it offers a glimpse into Japan's rich mining history and cultural landscape.

A brief summary to Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine

Omoricho, Oda, Omoricho, Shimane, 694-0305, JP
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Monday 9 am-5 pm
Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
Thursday 9 am-5 pm
Friday 9 am-5 pm
Saturday 9 am-5 pm
Sunday 9 am-5 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine.

Wear comfortable shoes for walking and exploring the mine shafts and town.
Visit during the spring (March-May) or fall (September-November) for pleasant weather and scenic beauty.
Check the opening hours of the Ryugenji Mabu Mine Shaft, as they vary depending on the season.
Rent a bicycle near the Omori Daikansho bus stop to explore the area at your own pace.
Stop by the Iwami Ginzan World Heritage Center first to gather information and plan your visit.

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Explore Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From the Omori Daikansho bus stop, it's a pleasant 30-45 minute walk (2km) along a well-maintained trail to the Ryugenji Mabu Mine Shaft. The path is mostly flat and easy to navigate, passing by historical sites and scenic views. Alternatively, you can take the Ginzan Cart, a golf cart service, for ¥500 one way. Note that the carts do not operate on Wednesdays.
Public Transport

From Odashi Station, take the Iwami Kotsu bus to Omori Daikansho bus stop. The bus ride takes approximately 25 minutes. From Hiroshima Station, a highway bus will take you to the Omori Daikansho bus stop in approximately 3 hours. Bus fares typically cost between ¥500 and ¥3,000 depending on the origin.
Taxi

Taxis are available from Odashi Station to Omori. The ride takes approximately 20 minutes and costs between ¥4,000 and ¥7,000. Note that taxi availability may be limited, especially during off-peak hours, so it's best to book in advance.

Discover more about Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine

The Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine, nestled in the mountains of Oda, Shimane Prefecture, offers a captivating journey into Japan's past. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007, this historical landmark was Japan's largest silver mine, flourishing from 1527 to 1923. During its peak in the 16th and 17th centuries, Iwami Ginzan produced a staggering one-third of the world's silver, playing a pivotal role in East Asian trade and drawing comparisons to the famed Cerro Rico mine in Potosí.Visitors can explore the well-preserved mining shafts, including the Ryugenji Mabu Mine Shaft, which is open to the public and demonstrates the manual mining processes used throughout the centuries. The surrounding town of Omori, once a bustling center for samurai administrators and merchants, retains its historic charm with traditional houses transformed into cozy cafes and shops. The Kumagai Residence, the home of a wealthy merchant family, offers a glimpse into the lives of those who prospered during the mine's operation.Beyond the mines and town, Iwami Ginzan's cultural landscape encompasses shrines, temples, and walking trails that wind through the surrounding forests. Kigami Shrine, with its dragon painting on the ceiling, and Rakanji Temple, home to 501 Rakan Buddha statues memorializing deceased miners, provide further insight into the spiritual and historical significance of the area. The Iwami Ginzan World Heritage Center offers comprehensive information about the mine's history and its impact on global trade.