Iwami Ginzan

Iwami Ginzan (石見銀山), also known as the Iwami Silver Mine, is a historic silver mine located in the city of Oda, Shimane Prefecture, Japan. It was one of the world’s leading silver mines during the 16th and 17th centuries, producing an estimated one-third of the world’s silver during that period. Its unique mining techniques and the resulting social structure have been recognized as being of significant cultural value, leading to its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007.

The Iwami Ginzan site comprises several well-preserved mining structures and industrial heritage sites scattered across the mountains. These include the remains of smelting furnaces, waterwheels, mining tunnels, and transportation routes. The mine’s advanced techniques, such as the “hairiyama” method of extracting silver from ore, and its sophisticated underground water drainage system, showcase the technological ingenuity of the time.

Visitors to Iwami Ginzan can explore the various historic sites, such as the Ryugenji Mabu mining area, the Okubo-cho streetscape with traditional houses, and the Iwami Ginzan World Heritage Center, which offers exhibits and information about the mine’s history, technology, and cultural significance. The nearby town of Yunotsu, a former port town that prospered due to the silver trade, also retains its historic charm with traditional buildings and a nostalgic atmosphere.

The surrounding area is also rich in natural beauty, with lush forests, mountains, and rivers providing ample opportunities for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy the scenic landscape while exploring the historical and cultural significance of this unique World Heritage Site.

Getting there

By Train and Bus

1. Take a JR train from Matsue to Oda-shi Station (45-90 minutes, 1170-3000 yen)
2. From Oda-shi Station, take a bus to Iwami Ginzan (about 30 minutes, 760 yen)

By Car

• About 30 minutes from Oda IC on the Chugoku Expressway
• Use the parking lot next to the World Heritage Center

From Major Cities

• From Tokyo: Take Shinkansen to Shin-Yamaguchi Station, then JR San-in Line to Oda-shi Station (about 6 hours total)
• From Osaka: About 4.5 hours by car via Chugoku Expressway

Local Transportation

• Buses run between Omori Town and the World Heritage Center
• A unique golf cart service, Ginzan Cart, connects Omori Town and Ryugenji Mabu Mine Shaft

Iwami Ginzan World Heritage Center

Hours	8: 30 AM – 5: 30 PM
Admission	General: 400 yen Elementary school and junior high school students: 200 yen
Phone	+81 854-89-0183
Address	1597-3 Omoricho,Ota City,Shimane Prefecture,694-0305
Official Website	https://ginzan.city.oda.lg.jp/