Kamioka mine, Underground mining complex in Hida, Japan
Kamioka mine is an abandoned mining complex beneath the mountains of Gifu Prefecture with two main excavation sites connected by extensive tunnel networks. The underground chambers are now repurposed for scientific research deep below the surface.
Mining at this location started over a thousand years ago, with operations becoming a major zinc, lead, and silver extraction site during World War II. Activity gradually declined as the mining industry shifted away from the region in later decades.
Between 1910 and 1945, the mine's operations led to widespread cadmium contamination, causing the documented Itai-Itai disease among local residents.
This underground site sits about 1000 meters below ground level, making it deep within the mountain. Public access is limited due to ongoing research operations, and visits require advance planning and permission.
Scientists at Kamioka mine use 50,000 tons of pure water and thousands of light sensors to detect neutrinos from space and study particle interactions.
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