Taio Gold Mine

Step into an underground world! Experience a museum inside the tunnels of a former gold mine

The Taio Gold Mine, once known for having the highest gold production in the East, has been transformed into an underground museum that utilizes these historic tunnels. The mine ceased operations in 1972, with vast tunnels stretching 110 kilometers in total and reaching depths of 500 meters. Today, approximately 800 meters of the tunnels near the entrance have been converted into a museum. The tunnels have been reproduced to look like they were at the time, and the mining process is faithfully depicted with mannequins and models. Enhanced with modern LED lighting and graphic displays, the experience feels like stepping back in time. One of the popular attractions is the gold panning activity, where visitors can hunt for gold specs hidden in sand – a thrilling adventure for all ages. Adjacent to the museum, the Taio Gold Mine Roadside Station offers a variety of local specialties and souvenirs, making it a great spot for shopping as well.

* Please note that the text shown on this page includes machine translations.

Basic Information

Address (Japanese)
877-0302 大分県日田市中津江村合瀬3750
Address
3750 Gose, Nakatsue-mura, Hita City, Oita, 877-0302
Telephone Number
0973-56-5316
Other contact details
0973-56-5336
Opening Times
March–November: 9:00–17:00
December–February: 10:00–16:30
The last admission for the Underground Museum tour and gold panning experience is 30 minutes before closing.
Closed
Closed on New Year’s Day
For other closure dates, please check the official website.
Prices
[Underground Museum Mine Tour]
-Adults: 1,100 yen
-Middle and high school students: 880 yen
-Elementary school students: 550 yen
-Seniors (70 years and older): 760 yen

*Group rates and discounts for disabled individuals are available
*Set tickets are available for the Underground Museum tour and gold panning experience
Car Park
130 parking spaces for passenger cars, 10 parking spaces for buses
Access
[By car]
-Approximately 60 minutes from Hita IC on the Oita Expressway
-Approximately 60 minutes from Kokonoe IC on the Oita Expressway
Website

Reviews (Tripadvisor)

*Information on facilities is subject to change. Please check each official website for the latest information.

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