Okubo Mabu Mine Shaft
Explore Okubo Mabu, the largest mine shaft in Iwami Ginzan, showcasing centuries of mining evolution from hand-dug tunnels to modern excavation.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better experience
Okubo Mabu Mine Shaft
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better experience
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Okubo Mabu, the largest mine shaft in Iwami Ginzan, showcasing centuries of mining evolution from hand-dug tunnels to modern excavation.
"A must-visit for its historical significance, but be prepared for a challenging hike and climb!"
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The path is steep and slippery. Rubber boots are provided, but good hiking shoes are essential for the trek to the mine.
🚶♀️ Bring a Walking Stick
For added stability on the slippery and uneven terrain, a walking stick is highly recommended.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Evolution of Mining Technology
Inside Okubo Mabu Mine Shaft
Witness the stark contrast between hand-dug tunnels from the Edo period and modern machine-excavated sections from the Meiji era.
Largest Mine Tunnel
Iwami Ginzan World Heritage Site
Explore the expansive Okubo Mabu, the biggest tunnel ruin within the historic Iwami Ginzan silver mine complex.
Historical Significance
Iwami Ginzan
Immerse yourself in the history of silver mining at Iwami Ginzan, renowned for its high-quality silver production.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Physical Fitness is Key
Book Your Guided Tour
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The path is steep and slippery. Rubber boots are provided, but good hiking shoes are essential for the trek to the mine.
🚶♀️ Bring a Walking Stick
For added stability on the slippery and uneven terrain, a walking stick is highly recommended.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry water, especially during the hike. You'll need it for the 2km walk and the climb.
🪖 Helmets Provided
Helmets are lent to visitors before entering the mine, ensuring safety during the tour.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The path is steep and slippery. Rubber boots are provided, but good hiking shoes are essential for the trek to the mine.
🚶♀️ Bring a Walking Stick
For added stability on the slippery and uneven terrain, a walking stick is highly recommended.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry water, especially during the hike. You'll need it for the 2km walk and the climb.
🪖 Helmets Provided
Helmets are lent to visitors before entering the mine, ensuring safety during the tour.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
The tour is about 2 hours, but factor in meeting time and bus travel, making it closer to a 3-hour experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Okubo Mabu Mine Shaft as a historically significant and impressive site, offering a unique glimpse into mining evolution. However, the challenging hike and slippery conditions require good physical fitness and caution. The guided tour is essential and highly recommended for a full understanding of the mine's history.
"This is a must visit, impressive place of historical significance. I only have it a 4 because if you have trouble hiking, with your knees or are not sure footed on slippery surfaces, you need to use caution. It is a long hike to the mine base, then a steep slippery climb. Bring a walking stick to stabilize yourself. If you take precautions and go slow, it is well worth the trek!"
Melissa Momper
"it is one of main shaft in Iwami silver mine, Shimane. the Iwami mine is known for its high quality silver.
the special optional tour is held at the Okubo mine shaft. the shaft is expanded in modern era. you can see clearly the difference between hand mining against bombing.
the original size is very narrow and followed silver reef."
Yukky Y
"This mine shaft is only available through a guided tour, and this tour is definitely worth to join. The tour takes 2.5h. Walking distance is 2km."
Michael Vogt
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Access to Okubo Mabu is via a guided tour that departs from the Iwami Ginzan World Heritage Center. You'll meet there, receive an explanation, and then board a bus to the mine entrance.
Yes, there is parking available at the Iwami Ginzan World Heritage Center, which is the starting point for the Okubo Mabu guided tours.
The guided tour involves a walk of approximately 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) to reach the mine shaft entrance.
No, direct vehicle access to the mine shaft is not permitted. All visitors must participate in the guided tour which includes bus transportation.
You can reach the Iwami Ginzan area by train to Oda City or Gōtsu Station, followed by a bus connection. Check local transport schedules for the most up-to-date information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for the Okubo Mabu public limited tour can be booked online or by phone. It is highly recommended to make reservations in advance.
The tour participation fee was reported to be 4,500 yen. It's advisable to check the official website for the most current pricing.
Yes, there are tours scheduled four times a day at set times. If the maximum number of participants hasn't been reached, same-day joining might be possible.
No, entry into the Okubo Mabu mine shaft is strictly prohibited without a guide. The guided tour is the only way to experience it.
The tour itself lasts about two hours, but including the meeting time and bus travel, you should allocate approximately three hours for the entire experience.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes suitable for hiking and slippery surfaces. While helmets and rubber boots are provided for inside the mine, good footwear is crucial for the approach.
The tour involves a significant hike with inclines and a steep, slippery climb, making it potentially difficult for those with knee problems or who are not sure-footed.
Inside, you'll see hand-dug tunnels from the Edo period and evidence of expansion through machine digging during the Meiji period, showcasing the evolution of mining technology.
Yes, it is quite dark inside the Okubo Mabu. There are no lights except for in a small section, so you'll be guided through the darkness.
While not explicitly forbidden, the darkness and the nature of the tour might make photography challenging. Focus on experiencing the history.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Food options are limited directly at the mine. It's best to eat before or after your tour in the main Iwami Ginzan area or nearby towns.
You should leave drinks and food behind when you enter the mine itself, as per the tour guidelines.
The Iwami Ginzan area offers local restaurants serving regional specialties. Ask your guide for recommendations.
📸 📸 Photography
The most striking photographic opportunities are the stark contrasts between hand-dug and machine-excavated sections, and the sheer scale of the tunnels.
Yes, the lack of light inside the mine makes photography challenging. A camera with good low-light capabilities or a tripod might be helpful, but focus on the experience.
While not explicitly stated as forbidden, the primary focus is on the guided tour and historical experience. Be mindful of other participants and the guide's instructions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's advisable to assess your children's stamina and comfort levels before booking. If your children are active and enjoy exploring, they might find the historical aspect and the 'underground' experience exciting. However, for families with toddlers or very young children, alternative, less physically demanding attractions within the Iwami Ginzan area might be more suitable.
🚶♀️ Active Adventurers & Hikers
Make sure to wear appropriate footwear, and consider bringing a walking stick for extra stability on the uneven terrain. The opportunity to explore a large, historical mine shaft with a knowledgeable guide offers a unique blend of physical activity and historical discovery. It’s a chance to step back in time and understand the arduous work of past miners.
🏛️ History Buffs & Culture Enthusiasts
Understanding the economic impact of Iwami Ginzan's silver and the lives of the miners adds depth to the visit. The guided tour provides essential context, making the experience both educational and deeply engaging. It’s a must-visit for those seeking to understand Japan's historical industrial landscape.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Iwami Ginzan and Okubo Mabu
Originally, silver was mined by hand, following the natural silver reefs. This method is evident in the narrow, winding tunnels characteristic of the Edo period. However, during the Meiji period, mining technology advanced dramatically with the introduction of machinery. Okubo Mabu vividly illustrates this transition, with sections expanded through modern excavation methods, offering a tangible comparison between manual labor and industrialization. This makes it a unique site for understanding the development of mining technology in Japan.
Visiting Okubo Mabu is not just a tour; it's a journey back in time. The guided experience provides context on the lives of the miners and the economic importance of the silver extracted. The sheer scale and the visible remnants of different mining eras make it a compelling destination for history buffs and anyone interested in industrial heritage.
Navigating the Okubo Mabu Guided Tour
The journey to the mine involves a 2km hike with a noticeable incline, followed by a steep and slippery climb into the shaft itself. This is why physical fitness is a key consideration. Visitors are provided with helmets and rubber boots to wear inside the mine, which is essential for safety given the dark and uneven terrain. The tour duration is approximately two hours, but the entire experience, including travel and briefing, can extend to about three hours. Guides are knowledgeable and can answer questions, though some visitors have noted that older guides might speak softly.
While inside, the darkness is profound, with minimal lighting. The guide will lead you through the tunnels, explaining the differences between hand-dug and machine-excavated sections. This immersive experience allows you to truly appreciate the scale of the operation and the labor involved. It's a valuable opportunity to witness firsthand the evolution of mining technology in a historically significant location.
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