Japan's Thriving Gold Mine
Nestled in the rural landscape of Isa, Kagoshima Prefecture, lies the Hishikari Mine, Japan's sole commercial gold mine. This "town of gold" is experiencing a golden age as the price of the precious metal continues to soar.
The Hishikari Mine boasts some of the world's highest gold content, with an astonishing 20 grams per ton of ore. This is significantly higher than the global average of 3 to 5 grams. In comparison, the Sado mine, Japan's second-largest gold producer until its closure in 1989, yielded only 80 tons of gold, while the Hishikari Mine has produced a staggering 264.5 tons by 2023.
The high gold content and rising prices have made the Hishikari Mine one of the most efficient in the world. The mine employs specialized heavy machinery and meticulous extraction techniques to maximize gold recovery. Despite the painstaking process, the mine continues to operate profitably, even exploring low-grade veins that were previously considered uneconomical.
The Hishikari Mine is not just a source of wealth for Sumitomo Metal Mining Co., but also a vital part of the Isa community. The city promotes its gold ore as a unique gift under the "furusato nozei" program, attracting attention from across the country.
As the Hishikari Mine continues to thrive, it serves as a beacon of hope for the future of gold mining in Japan. With its efficient operations, innovative technologies, and commitment to sustainability, the mine is poised to continue producing gold for generations to come.