Miike Coal Mine, Miyanohara Pit

Overview

Miike Coal Mine, Miyanohara Pit, is a coal mine opened during the Meiji period that played a significant role in Japan's modernization. It once produced 400,000 to 500,000 tons of coal annually, making a major contribution to Japan's industrial development. In 2015, it was registered as a component of the 'Industrial Revolution Heritage of Meiji Japan: Iron and Steel, Shipbuilding and Coal Mining' World Cultural Heritage site, attracting attention from both within Japan and abroad. Miyanohara Pit consists of the First and Second Shafts, each with unique remaining structures. The First Shaft, begun in 1895 and completed in 1898, was incredibly challenging due to groundwater issues, yet was completed using the cutting-edge technology of the time. The Second Shaft, started in 1899 and completed in 1901, was equipped with two of the world's largest-capacity Davey pumps (made in England) to efficiently drain the mine. The most striking feature of Miyanohara Pit is its red brick winding machine room, which retains its original appearance. The massive winding machine stands majestically, vividly conjuring up the scene of coal and personnel being transported into the mine. Furthermore, the approximately 22-meter-tall Second Shaft headframe is the oldest extant steel headframe in Japan, an awe-inspiring sight. We recommend taking a guided tour with volunteer guides. They provide detailed explanations of the history of the Miike Coal Mine and the lives of the miners, allowing for a deeper understanding. Miike Coal Mine, Miyanohara Pit, is more than just an industrial heritage site; it's a precious location indispensable to understanding the history of Japan's modernization. You can learn about the hardships, technological innovations, and the lives of the people of that era. Please visit and experience Japan's history and culture firsthand.