Sunday, October 27, 2024

Why was Japan’s Sado Island called “Land of Gold”?

In the 1600s, Japan produced almost a fifth of the world’s gold and almost half of it came from Sado. In this episode of Focus, Euronews discovers the charms of this mythical island.

Located west of the mainland in the Sea of Japan, Sado is Japan’s sixth largest island. This off-the-beaten-track destination is known for its fabulous seafood, stunning coastline and ancient temples. But Sado is most famous for its gold: During the Edo period, under Japan’s shogunate rulers, vast quantities of gold were mined here.

Ishikawa Kimiko, from Sado City’s World Heritage Promotion Division, told Euronews: “During the Edo period, 41 tonnes of gold were extracted from the Sado gold mines, and it is said that 20 per cent of the world’s gold came from Japan at the beginning of the 17th century. Half of this Japanese gold was mined here in Sado.

Aikawa is one of the most historic mines on the island. The tunnels are estimated to be 400km long – to put that in perspective, that is about the distance between Sado and Tokyo.

The Japanese government has nominated Aikawa and another of Sado’s mines, Nishimikawa, for UNESCO World Heritage status to showcase the mining techniques developed here between the late 16th and mid-19th centuries.

“The important thing about Sado is that at a time when other countries were becoming mechanised, Sado produced a large amount of high quality gold using non-mechanised, manual methods,” adds Kimiko.

As a destination, Sado could be overlooked in favour of some of Japan’s more famous locations, but the island’s unique culture, natural beauty and historical role in shaping the fortunes of Japan make it one of the country’s best-kept secrets.

Alice
Alice
Alice is a seasoned jewelry designer renowned for her exquisite creations that seamlessly blend artistry with elegance. With a passion for craftsmanship and an unwavering commitment to quality, Alice has established herself as a distinguished figure in the world of fine jewelry. Drawing inspiration from diverse cultures and artistic movements, Alice brings a unique perspective to her designs, creating pieces that transcend mere accessories to become timeless works of art. Her meticulous attention to detail and insistence on using only the finest materials ensure that each creation reflects not only her artistic vision but also a commitment to unparalleled craftsmanship. Having honed her skills through years of dedicated practice and a keen understanding of evolving trends, Alice is adept at translating her clients' desires into bespoke, one-of-a-kind pieces. Her portfolio encompasses a range of styles, from classic and timeless to avant-garde and contemporary, showcasing her versatility and ability to cater to a diverse clientele.

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