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Hitachi Mine

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The Hitachi Mine in Ibaraki Prefecture was one of Japan's most significant copper mines and the foundation of the modern Hitachi Group. Founded in 1905 by Fusanosuke Kuhara, it significantly propelled Japan's industrial revolution. The mine is particularly noted for its early environmental protection efforts; in 1914, the 'Great Chimney' was constructed to disperse toxic smoke into higher atmospheric layers, thereby protecting local agriculture. During its peak, the mine served as a technological model for mining and metallurgy. Operations ceased in 1981 following the depletion of resources, but it left behind a rich industrial heritage. Today, the site stands as a symbol of the transition from heavy industry to high technology. The 156-meter-high chimney, which partially remains after a partial collapse in 1993, is a landmark visible from afar. The Hitachi Museum commemorates the mine's history and the origins of one of the world's largest electronics companies. The mine remains a key example of Japanese industrial history and social responsibility toward the environment.

Location: Japan
Top sights: Mt. Takasuzu · Bando No.22 Satake-ji · Seizanso
Nearby: Hitachi (13 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	4	4	7	12	17	20	24	25	22	17	12	6
Rain mm	63	54	96	119	133	151	176	144	184	203	89	66

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?

This historically monumental copper mine catalyzed the immense growth of its surrounding city and sparked the foundation of a global technology giant, serving today as a profound monument to Japan's rapid industrialization.

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Visiting

While commercial extraction has long ceased, portions of the site have been thoughtfully preserved and transformed into an engaging museum complex where visitors can intimately explore the rich mining heritage.

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Where to view it

Excellent perspectives of the iconic great chimney and the enduring historical mine buildings can be found from the designated observation decks within the museum grounds or the adjacent forested mountain trails.

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Local products

The area's museum shops often offer specialized educational literature, historical reproduction souvenirs, and locally crafted goods that celebrate the enduring legacy of the regional copper mining industry.

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Active season

The museum and surrounding outdoor exhibits are wonderfully pleasant to visit during the temperate spring months, especially when the celebrated cherry blossoms beautifully frame the rugged industrial remnants.

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Nearby

A deep dive into this industrial history pairs marvelously with a scenic drive along the nearby beautiful Pacific coastline or a restorative soak in one of the region's soothing traditional hot springs.

Geography

Coordinates

36.60000, 140.53000

Facts

Founded in 1905 and served as the origin of the Hitachi Group.
The 'Great Chimney' was completed in 1914 with a height of 156 meters.
Produced over 30 million tons of ore during its operational life.
Operations were permanently shut down on September 30, 1981.
The chimney was considered the tallest in the world upon its completion.
The surrounding area was restored through extensive reforestation projects.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Hitachi13 km · NExplore →

Hitachinaka18 km · EExplore →

Mito21 km · EExplore →

Takahagi23 km · NWExplore →

Oarai25 km · EExplore →

Iwaki56 km · NWExplore →

Nasu58 km · SWExplore →

Kashima Industrial Zone62 km · EExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Hitachi Mine (6)

Mt. Takasuzu 🌿 nature

A prominent peak in the Hitachi mountains from which you can see the Pacific Ocean on clear days.

Bando No.22 Satake-ji ⛪ religious

The 22nd stop on the Bando pilgrimage, known for its main hall featuring a distinctive thatched roof.

Seizanso 🏛 museum

The former retirement residence of Lord Tokugawa Mitsukuni, known for its simple and elegant garden.

Takasuzu Prefectural Natural Park🌿 nature

A nature reserve featuring dense forests and hiking trails around Mount Takasuzu.

Kamisuwa Shrine 📍 landmark

A traditional Shinto shrine in Kamisuwa featuring classic ritual architecture.

Okubo Kashima Jinja 📍 landmark

A Shinto shrine in Okubo dedicated to the deities of the Kashima tradition.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What was mined at the Hitachi mine?

The mine was primarily known for copper and laid the foundation for Hitachi Ltd.

Is the mine still operating today?

No, the mine closed in 1981, but parts are now accessible as a museum or park.

What is the Great Chimney?

A 155m high chimney built in 1914 to disperse smoke above the local fog level.

Is there a museum for the mine?

Yes, the Hitachi City Museum features exhibits on the region's mining history.

How do I get to the former mine site?

From Hitachi Station, take a bus toward Kamine Park, where many relics can be seen.

Hitachi Mine: where is it located?

Hitachi Mine is located in Japan.

Hitachi Mine: what is there to see?

Highlights include Mt. Takasuzu, Bando No.22 Satake-ji, Seizanso.

Hitachi Mine: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.

Hitachi Mine: why is it worth visiting?

The Hitachi Mine in Ibaraki Prefecture was one of Japan's most significant copper mines and the foundation of the modern Hitachi Group.

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