Introducing the Sado Gold Mines of Niigata Prefecture!

This video, titled "Sado Gold and Silver Mine Promotion Video SADO GOLD & SILVER MINES For all Tourists" (佐渡金銀山のプロモーション動画「SADO GOLD & SILVER MINES For all Tourists」), was created by "Sado City Hall" (佐渡市役所).
The video introduces the Sado Gold and Silver Mines located on Sado Island (佐渡島), Niigata prefecture.
The mines, which were discovered in 1601 by three prospectors and mined for 400 years, were the biggest gold and silver mines in Japan.
These beautiful and ancient remains with surroundings abundant in nature are likely to be added to the long list of World Heritage Sites in Japan.

More About the Sado Gold and Silver Mines

Photo：Sado Gold Mine, Niigata Prefecture

Gold mining in the Sado Gold and Silver Mines in Niigata prefecture once flourished and became famous for the production of koban (gold coins used in the Edo period) and gold bars, however the gold resources have significantly dried up since then.
The Sado Gold Mines were developed during the Sengoku period (1467AD-1615AD) (戦国時代) and in 1601 became the property of Tokugawa Ieyasu (徳川家康).
That same year, gold was also discovered in Kitayama (北山) and the Sado Gold Mines became an important source of funds for the Tokugawa Shogunate (江戸幕府).

Aikawa Gold and Silver Mine (相川金銀山), the largest of all the Sado Gold Mines, has been designated a national historic site, Important Cultural Property (重要文化財), and an Important Cultural Landscape (重要文化的景観) of Japan.

Highlights of the Sado Gold and Silver Mines

Photo：Sado Gold and Silver Mine, Niigata Prefecture

Many historic sites, such as the crushing mill "Hasaiba" (破砕場), the stamp mill "Tokoba-ato" (搗鉱場跡) from the Meiji period (1868 AD-1912 AD), "Doyunowareto" (道遊の割戸), which was blown open by dynamite, as well as various shafts, mining, and smelting facilities, remain to this day.

"Kitazawafuyusen Kouba-ato" (北沢浮遊選鉱場), one of the Sado Gold Mine remains, has a characteristic appearance similar to that of ancient Rome's Colosseum.
This area is particularly popular among fans of Studio Ghibli's "Laputa: Castle in the Sky" who are looking for the perfect shot to share on Instagram!

Take a Trip to the Sado Gold Mines!

Photo：Sado Magistrate's Office, Niigata Prefecture

There are lots of spots nearby worth visiting, such as the remains of the old shopping district "Kyomachi-dori" (京町通り) and the Sado Magistrate's Office (佐渡奉行所).
There are also several events held throughout the year, such as "Kouzan Matsuri" (鉱山祭り) held in late-July and "Mushukunin Kuyousai" (無宿人供養祭) held on the third Sunday in April.
If you want to grab a bite to eat, we highly recommend trying the gold-leaf soft serve ice cream, or if you're looking for something savory, consider trying the curry or udon dishes served at "Kinzan Chaya" (金山茶屋) at the foot of the mountain.

There are several sightseeing courses available at the Sado Gold Mines with which you can view some of the natural tunnels or historic ruins.
You can also take part in a gold mining experience in the museum workshop or make some gold-leaf jewelry to take home as a souvenir!

Summary of the Sado Gold Mines Introductory Video

Photo：Sado Mine, Niigata Prefecture

We hope you enjoyed taking a look at the stunning landscape of the Sado Gold Mines, such as the remains of the mines and the beautiful night view introduced in the video.
Before setting off on your trip to the popular sightseeing spot that is Sado Island in Niigata prefecture, be sure to check opening times and access information for the Sado Gold Mines to make the most of your visit!

【Tripadvisor】Sado Gold Mines
https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g1021355-d1385038-r312515994-Historic_Relic_Sado_Gold_Mine-Sado_Niigata_Prefecture_Koshinetsu_Chubu.html