🗺️ Minetopia Besshiマイントピア別子

The Besshi Copper Mine, located in Ehime Prefecture, boasts the highest mineral production in Japan and is one of the three major copper mines in the country. After its closure in 1973 (Showa 48), the site of the former mining headquarters was transformed into the mining-themed park "Minetopia Besshi." Covering an expansive area of about 60,000 square meters, the park features a "tourist tunnel and sightseeing train" that allows visitors to learn about the history of the copper mine, along with various experiential facilities. The first stop is the main building, which functions as a roadside rest area, complete with a restaurant, café, direct market, and shops. On the second floor, visitors can find the boarding area for the sightseeing train, restored from the steam locomotives of the past. From here, the train departs for the 333-meter-long "tourist tunnel." In this tunnel, visitors can explore the mining history of the Besshi Copper Mine from the Edo period through the Meiji, Taisho, and modern eras, experiencing up close the hard work of the miners of yesteryear. Next, the highlight is undoubtedly the "Higashi-Hira District," known as the "Eastern Machu Picchu." Located about 11 kilometers from the main building, it can be accessed by car or sightseeing bus to the Higashi-Hira District, which sits at an elevation of 750 meters. This area is home to various industrial heritage sites, ranging from large structures like ore storage warehouses and the former substation to remnants of sites with only faint traces left. It is a large theme park where visitors can deeply appreciate the 283-year history of the Besshi Copper Mine.

The old site of the Biezi Copper Mine has been transformed into a theme park, covering an area of approximately 60,000 square meters, filled with attractions worth seeing. In the main building, visitors can not only enjoy shopping and dining but also relax in hot springs to ease their travel fatigue. The "Tourist Tunnel," which is 333 meters long, allows visitors to learn about the principles of mining through hands-on experiences. Near the "Grass Square," you can enjoy the fun of barbecuing or challenge yourself with gold panning or crafting copper products! The "Dongping District," which retains many industrial heritage sites, is known for its spectacular appearance and is often referred to as the "Eastern Machu Picchu."