What are Iwami Ginzan and the Omori townscape?
Iwami Ginzan is a silver mine located in Ōda City, Shimane Prefecture. It was a world-famous source of silver from the 16th to the 17th century.
The area that prospered as its center, known as the "Omori townscape," still preserves the beautiful historic streetscapes from that period.
Iwami Ginzan was registered as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site in 2007, and among its must-see spots is Ryūgenji Mabu (Ryugenji Mabu).
This place, where nature and people coexist and history and culture live on, is wrapped in a quiet atmosphere as if time has stopped.
Highlights of the Omori townscape
1. Samurai residences and merchant houses
In Omori, samurai residences and wealthy merchant houses from the Edo period remain, and the historic scenery is well preserved.
The red roofs of Sekishu tiles and white-walled buildings have a charming atmosphere, allowing you to enjoy the feel of the Edo period as you stroll.
In particular, the Kumagai Residence and the Former Kawashima Residence are valuable buildings that convey the prosperity of those days.
2. Ryūgenji Mabu (Ryugenji Mabu)
Ryūgenji Mabu is one of the mining tunnels of Iwami Ginzan that has been opened to the public.
The word "mabu" refers to a mine tunnel. At Ryūgenji Mabu, a roughly 600-meter path is open to visitors, letting you experience firsthand what silver mining was like.
The interior is cool, and as you walk you can see the lit-up tunnel and mining traces, making you feel as if you are passing through a tunnel of history.
Marks from mining tools and the texture of the rock remain unchanged, giving a vivid sense of the harsh labor and advanced techniques of the time.
- Tour time: About 40 minutes for one circuit
- Admission: Adults 500 yen / Children 250 yen
3. Iwami Ginzan Museum
Omori has the Iwami Ginzan Museum, where you can learn in detail about the history of Iwami Ginzan, silver-mining techniques, and the culture of the time.
The museum has many models and exhibits, and visiting it before or after touring the site deepens your understanding.
4. Gungendo (Gungendō)
Gungendo, a renovated traditional building, is a stylish café and shop.
It offers sweets and crafts made from local ingredients and is a popular spot for tourists.
It's a perfect place to take a break during your walk.
5. Ginzan Park and surrounding walks
Starting from the Omori townscape, you can stroll through Ginzan Park and the surrounding natural areas.
With beautiful seasonal scenery and quiet streets, it's a relaxing place to spend time.
How to enjoy each season
- Spring: Cherry blossoms bloom in abundance, brightening the townscape.
- Summer: Enjoy the coolness of Ryūgenji Mabu and the summer greenery.
- Autumn: Autumn leaves are beautiful, creating a stunning contrast with the townscape.
- Winter: The snow-covered Omori townscape and the silent Iwami Ginzan are magical.
Access information
Address
Omori, Ōda City, Shimane Prefecture
How to get there
- Train and bus
- About 25 minutes by bus from JR Sanin Main Line "Ōda Station"; get off at the "Omori" bus stop and it's a short walk.
- Car
- About 1 hour 30 minutes from the San-in Expressway "Izumo IC."
Parking
Private cars are not allowed to enter the Omori townscape and mine area.
Park at the World Heritage Center (free parking available) and use the local bus to reach the site — this is the standard way to visit.
Recommended ways to enjoy your visit
1. Historical exploration at Ryūgenji Mabu
Enter the tunnel and walk while learning about the history of silver mining.
The lit-up interior is also an attractive photo spot.
2. Strolling the townscape and café hopping
Take a leisurely walk through Omori and enjoy the blend of tradition and modernity at cafés and shops like Gungendo.
3. Deepen your knowledge at the Iwami Ginzan Museum
Visit the museum before or after touring the area to learn more about Iwami Ginzan's history and culture — it makes the sightseeing experience even richer.
Practical information for travelers
What to bring and what to wear
- Comfortable shoes: Essential for exploring Ryūgenji Mabu and the townscape.
- Camera: Don’t forget to bring one to capture the beautiful buildings and tunnel scenery.
- Light jacket: The tunnel interior is cool, so a layer to put on is comfortable.
Notes
- Environmental protection: To protect historic buildings and tunnels, please take your trash home with you.
- Safety: The tunnel floor can be slippery; walk carefully.
Frequently asked questions
Q1. Do I need a reservation to visit Ryūgenji Mabu?
A. Reservations are not required, but it can get crowded during busy periods, so we recommend visiting early in the day.
Q2. How much time should I allow?
A. Allow about 2–3 hours to combine a walk through Omori townscape with a visit to Ryūgenji Mabu.
Q3. What souvenirs do you recommend?
A. Popular choices are Gungendo’s goods, local crafts, and sweets inspired by Iwami Ginzan.
The Omori townscape of Iwami Ginzan and Ryūgenji Mabu are special destinations where history and nature harmonize.
Walk through the townscape that seems frozen in time, learn about the history of the silver mine, and make unforgettable travel memories.
