Sado Gold Mine

The Sado Gold Mine (佐渡金山), located on Sado Island in Niigata Prefecture, Japan, is a historical gold mine that was active from the 17th century until 1989. It was one of the largest gold mines in Japan during the Edo period and played a significant role in the country’s economy.

Visitors to the Sado Gold Mine can take a guided tour of the mine and learn about the history of gold mining on Sado Island. The tour includes a visit to the underground mine, offering two courses: the “Sōdayū kō” course, which showcases Edo period (1603-1867) mining methods, and the “Dōyū kō” course, which exhibits Meiji period (1868-1912) mining techniques. Visitors can see the various tunnels and shafts that were used to extract gold and silver from the earth.

The tour also includes a visit to the museum, where visitors can see exhibits and artifacts related to the history of the gold mine. The museum features a variety of displays, including tools and equipment used by the miners, samples of the various types of ore that were extracted from the mine, and dioramas depicting the lives of miners.

Another notable site is the Kitazawa Flotation Plant Ruins, a designated Important Cultural Property of Japan, showcasing the remains of a modern ore processing facility.

In addition to the mine and museum, the Sado Gold Mine offers various other attractions, including a reconstructed mining town, a traditional Japanese garden, and a theater showcasing “The Gold Mine Picture Scroll,” a film depicting the history of Sado Gold Mine. Visitors can also try their hand at gold panning and enjoy delicious Sado cuisine at the restaurant.

The Sado Gold Mine is currently in the process of seeking UNESCO World Heritage status.

Getting there

Getting to Sado Island

By Ferry from Niigata

From Niigata Port to Ryotsu Port on Sado Island:

• Car ferry: 2.5 hours, around 2,960 yen for adults
• High-speed jetfoil: 1 hour 7 minutes, around 7,050 yen for adults
• Ferries depart every 1-3 hours depending on the season and vessel type

From Tokyo to Niigata

• By Shinkansen: 2 hours, 10,500 yen (covered by Japan Rail Pass)
• By highway bus: 5.5 hours, typically 5,000 to 6,000 yen (budget options from 3,000 yen)

From Ryotsu Port to Sado Gold Mine

• Take a local bus or taxi from Ryotsu Port to the Gold Mine
• The Gold Mine is located in the Aikawa area of Sado Island

Details

Hours	April to October / 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM November to March / 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Admission	Island Mirage ・ Adults: 3,000 yen ・ Elementary school students: 2,550 yen Sodayu Mine ・ Adults: 1,000 yen ・ Elementary school students: 500 yen Doyu pit ・ Adults: 1,000 yen ・ Elementary school students: 500 yen Guided yamashi tour ・ Adults: 2,500 yen ・ Elementary school students: –
Phone	+81 259-74-2389
Address	1305 Shimoaikawa, Sado, Niigata 952-1501
Official Website	https://www.sado-kinzan.com/en/