Yui-Shiori
Board a Mini-Trolley into the Mine Shaft. Trace Copper Mining History from Edo to Showa Eras Through Life-Size Dioramas
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Board a Mini-Trolley into the Mine Shaft. Trace Copper Mining History from Edo to Showa Eras Through Life-Size Dioramas

About this spot

This facility showcases a section of the once-prolific Ashio Copper Mine, which boasted Japan's highest copper output. A mini-trolley train takes visitors into the tunnel; the rest of the journey is on foot. Life-size dioramas authentically recreate scenes from hand-mining in the Edo era through mechanized extraction after the Meiji Restoration, offering visceral glimpses into the lives and labor of miners. The mine stays cool year-round, making it an ideal summer retreat. It's a place to absorb Japan's modern industrial heritage while experiencing the very tunnels that powered the nation's development.

Fireworks details

Name: 足尾町納涼祭

Date & time: 8/13 (Thu) 15:00–21:00

Venue: 日光市足尾町・足尾庁舎前多目的広場

日光市足尾町の中心部、足尾庁舎前の多目的広場で開かれる夏の恒例行事です。2026年は8月13日の15時から21時まで開催。日中はまだ明るい山あいの広場に、時間が経つにつれ提灯の明かりがともり、太鼓の音を合図に盆踊りの輪が広がっていきます。かつて銅山の町として栄えた足尾に暮らす人々が一年で最も賑わう夜のひとつで、地元の人と観光客が一緒になって輪をつくるのがこの祭りの魅力です。山あいならではの涼しい夜風の中、ゆったりと夏の締めくくりを楽しめます。

Tips

駐車場は広場周辺に用意されますが台数に限りがあるため、早めの到着が安心です。山間部は日没後に気温が下がりやすいので、羽織ものを持参しましょう。屋台の有無は年によって異なるため、念のため軽食や飲み物を持参しておくと安心です。

Source: nikko-kankou.org

Tips

A short drive from Ashio Town Hall. Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the tunnel path is uneven. The mine is pleasantly cool, so bring a light layer. Souvenirs featuring copper craftsmanship are available at the shop.

Best time to visit

About 50 minutes. Early afternoon visits are typically less crowded, allowing unhurried exploration.

Access & map

〒321-1514 Tochigi Prefecture, Nikko City, Ashio Town, Tsudo 9-2

Visit official website

Model course featuring this spot

2026 Ashio Town Cooling Festival: Full-Day Immersion Course

Tochigi

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Board a Mini-Trolley into the Mine Shaft. Trace Copper Mining History from Edo to Showa Eras Through Life-Size Dioramas (Tochigi) | Things to Do & Highlights | Yui (栞)