Station Taio Kinzan

Unearth the Golden Legacy of Japan’s Historic Gold Mines

Nestled in the serene hills of Nakatsue Village, within the heart of Oita Prefecture, Taio Kinzan stands as a captivating roadside station where history, nature, and adventure converge. Adjacent to the renowned Taio Kinzan Underground Museum, this unique destination offers visitors a rare glimpse into Japan’s golden past through a fully immersive 800-meter-long replica mine shaft. The stable 13-degree temperature underground provides a refreshing retreat during summer months, making it a perfect escape from the heat.

What sets Taio Kinzan apart is its hands-on gold prospecting experience—visitors of all ages can search for real gold dust in sand, turning the thrill of discovery into lasting memories. From gold-leaf sweets to custom-made keepsakes, the on-site shop features exclusive souvenirs inspired by the region’s rich mining heritage. With dining, camping, and cultural events like the annual Taio Kinzan Festival, this roadside station is more than a stop—it’s a journey into the soul of a bygone era.

At Taio Kinzan roadside station, experience the only gold panning adventure in Japan where visitors can search for real sand gold in a meticulously recreated 800-meter mine tunnel. The unique attraction, enhanced by stable 13°C temperatures, offers a rare underground journey through a former gold mine. Visitors can also take home exclusive souvenirs like gold-leaf mochi and gold-dusted barley shochu—products found nowhere else.

• Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 10:00 AM on weekdays during winter months (December–February) to secure a spot at the gold panning experience before the 10:30 AM group session begins, as sessions fill quickly and are limited to 20 people per hour
• Hidden Gems: At the roadside station’s farm produce shop, look for the limited-edition "gold leaf yuzu pepper jam" and "gold-dusted dried shiitake mushrooms" available only from June through September
• Weekend Special: On the second Sunday of each month, visit the roadside station’s restaurant "Kekki" between 11:30 AM and 1:30 PM to enjoy the seasonal "Myaners Curry" with a free mini flashlight included for the gold panning activity
• Seasonal Activity: Visit the roadside station’s flower plaza between late June and early October to see the blooming dahlias, which are displayed in themed arrangements near the entrance and are best viewed in the late afternoon when sunlight enhances their colors
• Free Perk: If you are visiting the underground museum between July 19 and August 24, ask the staff at the information counter upon entry to receive a free "Mini Finger Light" — available to children under 12 on a first-come, first-served basis (approximately 2,000 units total)
• Special Access: On the day of the "Tairokinzan Festival" (typically held on the first Sunday of October), arrive by 9:00 AM to access the special "Golden Mine Pass" that grants priority entry to the underground museum and includes a free gold-foil souvenir keychain
• Best Photo Spot: For the best view of the roadside station’s golden-themed landscaping, stand at the northern edge of the parking lot near the "Kekki" restaurant at 4:30 PM on weekdays during the summer, when the sun casts long shadows that highlight the gold leaf accents on the signage and pathways

Spring (March–May): Stone pine flowers bloom in April, and the roadside station hosts the Honeycomb Lake Cherry Blossom Festival in early April.

Summer (June–August): The gold prospecting experience is especially popular in July and August, with special summer events and free flashlight gifts for children.

Autumn (September–November): Dalia flowers bloom from mid-September through October, and the annual Taio Kinzan Festival is held in early October.

Winter (December–February): The station operates with reduced hours, offering a cool retreat in the constant 13°C mine tunnel during hot summer months.