Minetopia Besshi, Mining theme park in Niihama, Japan
Minetopia Besshi is a mining park in Niihama built on a former copper mining site, featuring partially restored shafts, tracks, and structures from the industrial era. The two zones Hadeba and Tohnaru allow visitors to explore different parts of the historic mining operation.
A copper mining operation was established on this site in 1690 and operated continuously for centuries. After mining ceased, the grounds became a public educational park in 1991.
Life-size figures inside the mine shafts show how workers lived and labored during different periods. These displays help visitors understand the daily realities and hardships that mining families experienced.
Visitors can walk through restored tunnel sections and try hands-on activities like gold panning or guided mine tours. An adjacent hot spring resort provides relaxation options after exploring the site.
The Tohnaru zone features stone walls and brick structures built high on a hillside, showcasing industrial architecture from the mining era. This elevated position was necessary to manage mineral processing and transport in the challenging terrain.
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