Wado Ruins

Overview

The Wado Ruins are located in Kurodani, Chichibu City, Saitama Prefecture. They are centered around the open-pit remains of a copper mine. In the late Asuka period, during the reign of Empress Genmei, native copper (nigia-kagane) was discovered in Musashi Province, Chichibu County (present-day Chichibu City, Saitama Prefecture) and presented to the imperial court on January 11, 708 (Keiun 5). Delighted by this discovery, Empress Genmei changed the era name to "Wadō" on the same day and subsequently issued Wadōkaichin, Japan's first circulating currency. The Wado Ruins are renowned for their significant role in Japanese monetary history. Visitors can explore the remnants of the ancient open-pit mine and a large monument modeled after a Wadōkaichin coin. Nearby is "Iwaiyama" (Celebration Mountain), said to be where the celebratory ceremony for the copper offering was held. A shrine, Sei Jinja, was later built on this mountain after the relocation of the original structure. Within the shrine grounds, you'll find the Wado Mineral Museum. Nestled amidst the serene and naturally beautiful mountains of Chichibu, the Wado Ruins offer a tranquil setting for exploration and reflection on history. By understanding how ancient people mined and utilized copper, you can gain a deeper appreciation for Japanese history and culture.