A silver mine that once produced much of the world's silver, with a mining town in harmony with nature β surviving tunnels and old streetscapes form this World Heritage site.
| Full name | Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine and its Cultural Landscape |
|---|---|
| World Heritage | Inscribed 2007 |
| Location | Omori-cho, Oda City, Shimane |
| Viewing | Ryugenji Mabu tunnel; Omori townscape |
| Cost | Ryugenji Mabu charges (town walk free) |
| Access | Bus from JR Oda-shi; bases at Izumo/Matsue |
| Best seasons | Spring and autumn (ideal for walking) |
An open mine tunnel with original chisel marks.
An old town that thrived on silver; rental cycling is popular.
Stone statues memorialising the miners.
Shimane pottery.
Izumo/Iwami flavours.
Items themed on the mine.
Classic souvenirs can be ordered online. Replace the link after joining an affiliate program.
Order online (replace link)Shimane's warigo soba.
Nodoguro and more.
Old-house cafΓ©s in Omori.
| World Heritage Centre | The base car park; continue by bus, foot or bike. |
|---|---|
| Recommended | Explore the town and tunnel on foot or by rental bike. |
In busy periods, pre-book a nearby lot for peace of mind.
Reserve a parking spot (replace link)| Yunotsu Onsen | A port hot spring also part of the World Heritage. |
|---|---|
| Izumo / Matsue | Easy to combine with Izumo Taisha. |
Rooms sell out early in cherry-blossom and autumn seasons β book ahead.
Search hotels (replace link)The Ryugenji Mabu tunnel charges admission; the Omori town walk is free. Check the official site.
Base yourself at the World Heritage Centre and explore the town and tunnel on foot or by rental bike.
