Iwami Ginzan was one of the most productive silver mines in the world: at its 16th–17th century peak it is said to have supplied as much as a third of the world’s silver, and it was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007 — notably for having been worked sustainably, in harmony with its forested landscape, rather than through destructive large-scale extraction. Visitors can walk into the Ryugenji Mabu, one of hundreds of hand-dug tunnels, and then explore Omori, the exquisitely preserved former mining town of wooden merchant houses, temples and shops strung along a single quiet valley street. A small hot-spring hamlet lies nearby.
🗓️ At a Glance
| Location | Oda, Shimane |
| Hours | Mine tunnel ~9:00–17:00; town always open |
| Admission | Ryugenji Mabu ~¥410; town free |
| Time needed | Half to full day |
| Best time | Year-round; spring and autumn are loveliest |
What to See
- The Ryugenji Mabu, a hand-dug mine tunnel you can walk.
- Omori, a beautifully preserved wooden merchant town.
- The story of sustainable mining recognised by UNESCO.
- A quiet hot-spring hamlet near the mine.
Combine Your Visit
- Combine with the Shimane Washi paper museum in Oda.
- Pair with the Tatara iron heritage of the region.
- Read our Shimane overview .
Getting There
- By train + bus: JR to Odashi Station, then a bus to Omori.
- Getting around: the town is walkable; rental bikes reach the mine.
Tips
Explore on foot and by rental bike rather than driving into the old town, which is protected and largely car-free — park at the edge and walk or cycle in. Allow time for both the walkable Ryugenji Mabu tunnel and the town of Omori, which is the real highlight, and don’t rush: the pleasure is the slow, quiet valley streetscape rather than a single big sight.
