Station Mintopia Besshi

Step Into a Living Legacy of Japan’s Industrial Past

Mintopia Besshi, nestled in the lush hills of Niihama City in Ehime Prefecture, stands as a remarkable roadside station where history, nature, and modern recreation converge. Built on the historic site of the famed Besshi Copper Mine—one of Japan’s three great copper mines—this vibrant destination honors over 280 years of industrial heritage, from its founding in 1691 to its closure in 1973. Today, the site thrives as a cultural and natural sanctuary, blending preserved mining ruins with immersive experiences.

Visitors can explore the meticulously reconstructed mining tunnels, dig for real gold in the Sand Gold Experience, or relax in the soothing waters of the Sky Bath, powered by natural Besshi mineral springs. The site’s two distinct zones—Hadeba Area and Tounaru Area—offer everything from family-friendly play zones like Akaganekids Park to scenic trails, dining at the Forest Wind restaurant, and seasonal illuminations. With year-round access, guided tours, and a range of outdoor activities, Mintopia Besshi is more than a stop—it’s a journey through time.

Visit Mintopia Besshi to experience the only underground mine tour in Japan that reconstructs Edo-period mining life through lifelike mannequins and authentic tunnel pathways. Here, you can also try the region’s exclusive sand gold panning in the original riverbed of the Besshi Copper Mine. The site’s signature attraction, Sky Bath at Besshi Onsen, offers hot springs drawn from natural Besshi mineral water—uniquely rich in copper and iron—making it the only onsen in the area with such mineral composition.

• Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekdays to secure a spot at the sand gold panning area, which opens at 9:30 AM and often fills up by 11:00 AM
• Hidden Gems: Visit the deli counter at the restaurant Mori no Kaze between 10:30 AM and 11:30 AM to get the day’s fresh batch of baked milk bread, which sells out quickly
• Weekend Special: On weekends, join the guided tour of the old mining site at 11:00 AM—these tours are only available during the 11 AM to 1:00 PM window and require advance registration via the official website
• Best Photo Spot: Head to the East Hill Viewpoint at 4:00 PM during the December 1 to January 12 illumination period to capture the entire site lit up with holiday lights, especially around the former mining shaft entrance
• Family-Friendly Tip: Bring a towel and swimsuit to visit the Sky Spa at the Besshi Onsen between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM on weekdays when the bathhouse offers a free children’s bath hour with supervised play time
• Foodie Tip: Order the Besshi Copper Mountain Curry at the kitchen car at 1:00 PM on Fridays and Sundays—this special menu item is only served during those two lunch hours and is not available at other times
• Accessibility Tip: Use the designated accessible parking near the East Hill entrance and access the museum via the ramp at the west side of the building, which has a clear path to the exhibit hall with tactile floor guides

Spring (March–May): Wild garlic and early mountain vegetables available at the market; sand gold panning begins in late April.

Summer (June–August): Cool mountain air invites visits to the East Peace area; summer night illuminations start in late July.

Autumn (September–November): Peak maple viewing along the Besshi Line; the Akaganekids Park hosts its Santa gift event in late November.

Winter (December–February): The Sky Bath温泉 features seasonal illuminations from November 1 to January 12; snow-dusted landscapes enhance the historic site’s charm.