Kitazawa Flotation Plant

The Aikawa Gold and Silver Mine, the largest of Sado’s gold mines, was in operation from the early Edo period until 1989. In the Kitazawa district, the ruins of the Kitazawa Flotation Plant remain-a facility built to meet the demand for mass production of gold and silver during wartime. Structures from the early Showa period still stand today, and the site has been designated a National Historic Site as a valuable piece of industrial heritage.

This was the first facility in Japan to apply the flotation method-originally used in copper processing-to the extraction of gold and silver. Once hailed as the “largest flotation plant in the Orient,” it left behind a striking stepped structure, with only its concrete framework remaining. Its dramatic appearance has been compared to ancient Roman ruins or even scenes from animated films, gaining attention on social media. In addition to the flotation plant, visitors can also see other facilities such as thickeners (concentrators) and a brick power plant.

From April through January, the site is illuminated at night. Vivid LED lighting makes the massive structures glow against the darkness, creating a dreamlike atmosphere that is truly breathtaking. Within the grounds, there is also a café offering a panoramic view of the plant and dishes made with Sado Island Kurobuta pork from the site’s own pig farm.