The greatest attraction of Ryugenji Mabu is the reality of the inside of the tunnel, which was hand-dug with only a chisel and hammer. About 157m of the 600m long tunnel is open to the public, and in the dim lighting, you can see up close the countless chisel marks on the walls and traces of silver ore mining. The tunnel is cool all year round, so a jacket is essential even in summer. This coldness helps you imagine how harsh the conditions were for the workers at the time. It is a space where you can feel the vivid breath of history, that is, "mining to survive."

The tunnel is toured one-way, and as you go deeper, explanatory panels about the mining techniques of the time and the history of the silver mine are installed. In the tunnel, you can also get a glimpse of the drainage system and the measures taken to prevent the tunnel from collapsing, and you will be impressed by the wisdom and technology of our predecessors. Behind the open section, there is a tunnel that continues even further into the mine, which is not open to the public, giving you a sense of the vastness and complexity of Iwami Ginzan. Personally, when I enter the mabu, I feel as if I have passed through a time tunnel and wandered into a silver mine from hundreds of years ago.

Ryugenji Mabu is not just a place to see historical remains, but also a place to think about the lives and spirit of the people at that time. When sightseeing, listening to the guide's explanations and learning a little about Iwami Ginzan beforehand will help you enjoy it more. Access to the Ginzan area from "Omori Townscape" along the way can be done by rental bicycle (electrically assisted bicycles are recommended) or on foot, but there are many things to see, such as the rich nature in the surrounding area and the remains of other mabu, so the walk itself is enjoyable. There is no reason not to visit this place as an experience that touches the heart of Iwami Ginzan.