Sado Gold Mine or Sado Kinzan is Sado Island's most important historical site. Currently it is promoted as an UNESCO World Heritage site. Sado Gold Mine was Japan's largest gold mine, while it has been in operation since 1601. In 1601, gold was discovered. In addition, gold was produced until 1989. At that time, mining was ceased. The Sado Kinzan mine produced 78 tons of gold and 2300 tons of silver. To be clear, this represents 156,000 pounds of gold!
Cramped conditions were the order of the day. Technology, to include the Archimedes' Screw, helped pump out water to above ground from deep mine tunnels. A Chinese bellows system was used to provide fresh air in the shafts while drainage channels took excess water away preventing accumulation.
About 400 km of mining tunnels existed in the Sado Kinzan mine. A huge outcrop is still visible where mining began.
Meiji authorities took ownership of the mines in 1867. Some shafts at the Sado Kinzan were completed with the help of German engineers. More modern developments occurred. From 1909 until 1938 saw more improvements in the mining at the location due to Western contributions to mining technology, including flotation plants.
Now, tourists can enjoy the tours at the Sado Kinzan mine and tours of the Sado Gold Mine tour.
This Japanese historical site has more to offer. If interested, please view the following website with wonderful photos.
https://www.japan-experience.com/all-about-japan/niigata/attractions-excursions/sado-kinzan
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