Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine

The Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine was a silver mine in the Shimane Prefecture of Honshû, Japan. It was developed in 1526 by Kamiya Jutei, a Japanese merchant. It reached its peak production of 38 tons in the early 17th century of approximately 38 tons of silver a year which was then a third of world production.

Silver from the mine was used widely for coins. It was contested fiercely by warlords until the Tokugawa Shogunate won control of it in 1600 as a result of the Battle of Sekigahara in 1600. It was later secured by fences and barricaded by pine trees. Yamabuki Castle was built in the centre of the complex.

Silver production from the mine fell in the nineteenth century as it had trouble competing with mines elsewhere and it was eventually closed.


Year Decision Comments
2007 Inscribed Reasons for inscription

Reviews

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I have visited this wonderful place with two japanese friends last september. The area is absolutely beautiful, a complete valley to walk around.
The path to the tunnel that is possible to visit is a very pleasant walk of about 5 km from the parking lot and indications are in both english and japanese. People are very friendly and everywhere you can see beautifully preserved houses as well as exuberant nature.
It was a great experience, since the town is very well conserved and it is possible to find a lot of information about the history of the place. There are also plenty of cafes where one can eat soba (buckwheat noodles) or rice as well as an incredible wasabi (type of japanese spice root) ice cream.
 


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