National, August 2024
Sado Island Gold Mines Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Showcasing the Rich Cultural and Natural Heritage of Niigata Prefecture
On July 27 2024, the historic Sado Island Gold Mines, located on Sado Island in Niigata Prefecture, has officially been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site by the World Commission meeting held in New Delhi, further solidifying its significance as one of Japan’s most treasured cultural landmarks. In 2022, the “Golden Mine on Sado Island” including this “Historic Site Sado Gold Mine” was nominated by UNESCO as a candidate for World Cultural Heritage in Japan, and since then the preparations were underway for the official registration.
Sado Island Gold Mines: A Glimpse into Japan’s Golden Era
Sado Island Gold and Silver Mines is a general term for the gold and silver mines on Sado Island, one of which is the Aikawa-Tsurushi Gold and Silver Mine. Gold dust began to be mined around the 12th century. Full scale development began in 1601, and a large amount of gold and silver was produced for nearly 400 years until mining stopped in 1989. The total length of the Aikawa Gold and Silver Mine is an incredible 400 kilometers. A portion of it is open to the public as a Historic Site Sado Gold Mine
sightseeing route. Today, the site has been developed as a tourist facility with Sado Museum, Historic Site Sado Gold Mine, where you can learn about the traditional mining and production methods while observing heritage sites. At the Gold and Silver Mine Guidance Facility Kirarium Sado, take a commemorative photo with a giant koban coin. The UNESCO designation is expected to draw increased global attention, making Sado Island a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and tourists alike.
Niigata Prefecture: A Destination for All Seasons
Niigata Prefecture, located along the Sea of Japan coast, is known for its rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and vibrant cultural heritage. From the scenic rice terraces to the historic Sado Island Gold Mines, Niigata offers a diverse range of attractions that offers something for every traveler. Let’s discover more about Niigata’s beautiful and diverse attractions:
Yahiko-jinja Shrine: Yahiko-jinja Shrine's origins can be traced back to 657 B.C. Nestled at the foot of Mount Yahiko, this ancient shrine is a spiritual center and a popular pilgrimage site. Visitors can enjoy the serene surroundings and the nearby Yahikoyama Ropeway, which offers panoramic views of the region.
Nagaoka Fireworks Festival: Niigata prefecture is also home to one of Japan's top three fireworks festivals, celebrated along the banks of the Shinano River near Ote Bridge.
Kiyotsu Gorge: Known for its dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters, Kiyotsu Gorge in Tokamachi City is one of Japan's three great canyons and has been designated a National Place of Scenic Beauty and Natural Monument. It is particularly breathtaking during the autumn season when the foliage turns vibrant shades of red and orange.
Mt. Myoko: Mt. Myoko is a 2,454 meter active volcano, it is a year-round destination, offering Onsen, skiing and snowboarding in the winter and hiking and nature viewing during the warmer months. Mt. Myoko is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure in a stunning natural setting.
Ponshukan Sake Museum: Niigata is renowned for its high-quality sake, and the Ponshukan Sake Museum located inside Echigo-Yuzawa Station offers visitors a chance to sample a wide variety of local brews. It’s a perfect stop for those looking to experience the flavors of Niigata due to the region's excellent rice and water.
With the recent UNESCO designation of Sado Island Gold Mines, the prefecture is poised to become an even more prominent destination on the global tourism map.
About Japan National Tourism Organization:
Affiliated with the Japan Tourism Agency of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism, JNTO has effectively functioned as the Japanese government bureau of tourism. It has 25 tourism-promotion-oriented offices across the world and a large network of suppliers for tourism and event services in Japan.
JNTO Website: https://www.japan.travel/en/in/
FB page: https://www.facebook.com/VisitJapan.India
Media Kit: https://business.jnto.go.jp/resource/mediakit/#target/page_no=1
For more information, contact:
Ujwal Sood, Senior manager (Marketting & PR)
Japan National Tourism Organization, New Delhi Office
+91-9811900165 | +91-11-49057650
(*Please contact us as the images published in the press release may be available for use.)
