Wadō Site, Copper mine in Chichibu, Japan.
The Wado Site is a historic copper mine in Chichibu displaying exposed rock formations from the Sotochichibu Mountains and a clear fault line cutting through the Chichibu Basin layers. The visible strata show the geological structures that made copper extraction possible in this location.
In 708, this mine was worked under Empress Genmei's orders to produce copper for Japan's first official currency, the Wadokaichin. This made the operation a key symbol of early imperial authority and economic development.
The nearby Hijiri Shrine holds copper centipede statues gifted by Empress Genmei, representing the mountain spirits that watched over those who worked in the mine.
The site is most easily reached by train to Wadokuroya Station on the Chichibu Railway, followed by a walk of around 20 minutes through local paths. The walk offers views of the surrounding mountain landscape along the way.
A stream flowing near the mining site continues its original use from centuries ago, when workers rinsed copper extracted from the surrounding rock. This simple water system connects visitors directly to the daily practices of early mining operations.
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