Tada Silver and Copper Mine

Overview & Highlights

The Tada Silver and Copper Mine, located in Inagawa Town, Hyogo Prefecture, is a significant historical site designated as a National Historic Site of Japan. The site showcases the history of the silver mining district, which once thrived so much it was famously known for its "3,000 shops." The Yukyu-no-Yakata museum serves as the center for this history, featuring displays of maps, ancient documents, various ores, and traditional mining tools. Beyond the museum, the site offers tangible connections to the past through the Aoki Mabu mine shaft and the Meiji-era smelting ruins at Yukyu Plaza.

Historical Background

This region experienced immense prosperity during the Edo period and saw significant industrial activity during the Meiji era under the management of Mitsubishi. In 1895 (Meiji 28), entrepreneur Tojiro Koreto obtained a mining patent for the "Tada Mine." The site continued operations through the Showa era under Nippon Kogyo until it finally closed in 1973 (Showa 48). To preserve this rich legacy, the site was designated as a National Historic Site in 2015. Today, it serves as an educational center for Japan's mining heritage.

Main Attractions

Yukyu-no-Yakata Museum

This facility offers a deep dive into the history of the Tada Silver and Copper Mine. Visitors can study the industrial and cultural aspects of the era through exhibited maps, ancient documents, ores, and tools. The museum also features digital content where you can use computers to view historical maps and visualize the layout of the silver mining district. From the windows, you can even view the ruins of the former magistrate's office (Daikan-sho) located across the way.

Aoki Mabu (Mine Shaft)

The only part of the site where you can experience an actual mine shaft. You can observe different mining methods, ranging from the hand-dug tunnels of the Edo period to the mechanical excavation techniques used in the Showa era. The shaft is equipped with lighting, allowing for a safe and atmospheric experience inside the tunnels.

Yukyu Plaza

Developed in 2013, this plaza preserves the surface ruins of the "Hori Family Smelting Plant" built during the Meiji era. Visitors can see six distinct brick structures. The area is divided into a multi-purpose zone with the scenic Nenriki-yama mountain in the background and a dedicated historical exhibition zone.

Seasonal Information & Best Times to Visit

The Aoki Mabu mine shaft tour is available from 09:00 to 17:00. The tunnels are equipped with lighting for safety. While the site is a great destination for historical learning year-round, please note that access to the mine shaft may be restricted due to weather conditions or scheduled maintenance. We recommend checking the official website for the latest updates before your visit.

Activities & Experiences

Mine Shaft Experience

Step inside the Aoki Mabu mine shaft to experience the actual environment where mining once took place. For your safety, please wear the helmets provided at the entrance or the Yukyu-no-Yakata museum.

Historical Learning

At Yukyu-no-Yakata, you can learn about Japanese mining technology and the regional development through various physical exhibits and digital content.

Surrounding Area

The Aoki Mabu mine shaft is located approximately 550 meters (about a 15-minute walk) northwest of the Yukyu-no-Yakata museum. The ruins of the former magistrate's office are also located across the way, offering a beautiful historical landscape to enjoy.

Important Information (Payment, Language, & Etiquette)

Payment Methods

Please check with the facility in advance regarding any applicable fees or payment methods for onsite services.

Language Support

While there are many exhibits, please check on-site for the availability of English-language guides or signage.

Reservations & Notes

Groups wishing to visit should contact the "Tada Silver and Copper Mine Yukyu-no-Yakata" in advance. Please also check the official website for any scheduled maintenance days, as the Aoki Mabu shaft may be closed during those times.

Clothing & Safety

When visiting the Aoki Mabu mine shaft, you must wear the provided safety helmet. Please strictly adhere to all signs and do not enter private property or restricted areas.

Etiquette

When walking on roads, please stick to the right side and do not spread across the path. Additionally, the roads leading past the Yukyu-no-Yakata museum are narrow; please refrain from driving vehicles into the inner areas.