Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine (Oda City, Shimane Pref.)

The Ryugenji and the Okubo Mabu

Silver mine shafts were called mabu in Japanese, and these are unique because they are open to the public. There are chisel marks on the walls left as the miners dug out the shafts, a testimony to the power of the human spirit.

Left: The troughs on the walls are all chisel marks
Right: Okubo mabu in the dark

The Town of Omori

The town of Omori, which grew alongside the silver mine and which has also been designated by the government as a protected townscape area, features rows of old buildings, silversmith establishments and other souvenir shops, restaurants serving soba noodles and other delicacies, and more.

Yunotsu Onsen

Yunotsu, which once flourished as a port from which silver products were shipped, is also an onsen area. Travelers can be relieved of the weariness of their journey in inns and open-air baths imbued with character. The streets of Yunotsu have also been designated by the government as a protected townscape area.