Japanese Lifestyle at World Heritage Sites
The ruins of the Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine, located in Ōmori Town in Ōda City, were designated as a World Heritage Site in 2007. At the height of its silver production from the late 16th century to the early 18th century, Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine helped produce nearly one-third of the world’s silver. Operations of the mine being carried out in coexistence with the natural environment, rather than destroying it, is a particularly valuable characteristic of this site and a major reason for its designation.
After its selection as a World Heritage Site, the area did not shift to tourism; instead, the everyday lives of the residents continue as they always have in an area that preserves an Edo Period townscape. A unique mountain village standard of economic development not being the only path to happiness prospers here, and the lifestyle is one of a more traditional time. That lifestyle has an appeal that continues to draw people from other areas of the country to live here, and now Ōmori Town is attracting attention, not only in Japan but from around the world, as a model town for sustainable development.
A really special sight in the Iwami Ginzan area is Omori Town. Today this town has a population of around 450 people and stretches 1.5 km long between the mountains. There are many preserved old houses, samurai residences, shops, shrines, temples and many other sights, which are all worth a visit. It is possible to rent bicycles and explore this quiet place on your own. It is really impressive to walk through the ancient streets along the river and experience the feeling of the old Japan during the silver rush. But not only the town itself is a sight, you should also explore the wild nature around Omori. There are many nice paths, which are mostly easy to walk. What makes the surrounding nature so unique is the existence of many ruins of ancient castles, temples, shrines and settlements in the middle of the forest. They are covered with moss and you can really see how the nature tries to regain its space. There are also many hidden mine shafts and places with an amazing view in the beautiful nature scenery. These things create a mysterious and ancient atmosphere, which let you feel like in a dream. So it is really worth it to visit this secret place in the mountains, if you want to experience this unique sight of Japanese history.
After its selection as a World Heritage Site, the area did not shift to tourism; instead, the everyday lives of the residents continue as they always have in an area that preserves an Edo Period townscape. A unique mountain village standard of economic development not being the only path to happiness prospers here, and the lifestyle is one of a more traditional time. That lifestyle has an appeal that continues to draw people from other areas of the country to live here, and now Ōmori Town is attracting attention, not only in Japan but from around the world, as a model town for sustainable development.
A really special sight in the Iwami Ginzan area is Omori Town. Today this town has a population of around 450 people and stretches 1.5 km long between the mountains. There are many preserved old houses, samurai residences, shops, shrines, temples and many other sights, which are all worth a visit. It is possible to rent bicycles and explore this quiet place on your own. It is really impressive to walk through the ancient streets along the river and experience the feeling of the old Japan during the silver rush. But not only the town itself is a sight, you should also explore the wild nature around Omori. There are many nice paths, which are mostly easy to walk. What makes the surrounding nature so unique is the existence of many ruins of ancient castles, temples, shrines and settlements in the middle of the forest. They are covered with moss and you can really see how the nature tries to regain its space. There are also many hidden mine shafts and places with an amazing view in the beautiful nature scenery. These things create a mysterious and ancient atmosphere, which let you feel like in a dream. So it is really worth it to visit this secret place in the mountains, if you want to experience this unique sight of Japanese history.
