Sado Gold Mine
史跡 佐渡金山
An Edo-period gold and silver mine inscribed as a World Heritage site in 2024. Visitors can walk into the Sotayu and Doyu shafts and see mining scenes recreated with figures.
The Sado Gold Mine was discovered in 1601 and closed in 1989. Over nearly 400 years it produced about 78 tonnes of gold, an important source of revenue for the Edo shogunate. In 2024 it was inscribed as a World Cultural Heritage site under the name 'Sado Island Gold Mines.'
There are two sightseeing tunnels. The Sotayu Shaft uses electric figures to recreate the hardship of hand mining in the Edo period, while the Doyu Shaft displays modern mining and transport facilities from the Meiji era onward. There is also a guided route led by mountain guides, which requires advance booking. Inside the tunnels the temperature stays around 10°C year-round, so bring a jacket even in summer. Tickets start from about 1,500 yen. Take a bus from Ryotsu Port to Aikawa, about 1 hour, then walk or transfer for about 5 minutes.
Opening hours
Approx. 08:00–17:30 (Nov–Mar 08:30–17:00)
Nearby sights
- Doyu no Wareto
- Kitazawa Flotation Plant Ruins
- Sado Magistrate's Office
- Aikawa Kyomachi Street
- Nanaura Coast & Meoto-iwa
- Senkaku Bay
- Sado History and Legend Museum
- Daizen Shrine Noh Stage