Sights
Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine (Shimane)
Shimane Prefecture
Featured in the Michelin Green Guide Japan, Asia’s first mine ruins to become a World Heritage Site
The ruins of the Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine mark Japan’s largest silver mine, discovered in 1526. At its peak, the mine accounted for about one-third of the world’s silver production. In consideration to the environment, the mine was deemed a World Heritage Site as “Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine and its Cultural Landscape” to manage the mine and its surrounding natural landscape. Mine tours on Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and national holidays are popular but limited.
Basic information
- Address
- 1597-3 I, Omori Town, Oda City, Shimane Prefecture
- Access
- 30 min by bus from JR Odashi Sta. to “Iwami Ginzan World Heritage Center”
- Business Hours
- 8:30am – 5:30pm (Exhibition room: 9:00am – 5:00pm) *Extended for 30 min in March to November.
- Closed
- Last Tuesday of every month, and New Year’s Holiday
- Admission
- General admission 200 yen; students 100 yen (elementary and junior high)
*Passports must be presented.
- Tel.
- 0854-89-0183
- Website
- https://ginzan.city.ohda.lg.jp/(Japanese)