Sado Kinzan Gold Mine

Sado Kinzan Gold Mine on Sado Island, Niigata Prefecture, was one of the most productive gold mines in the world during the Edo period and is now a preserved historical site. Visitors can explore the actual mine tunnels, which feature realistic wax figure displays recreating the harsh conditions endured by Edo-period miners. The mine produced enormous wealth that helped sustain the Tokugawa shogunate's finances for over 400 years.