Remains of Mikobata Ore Dressing Plant

The Remains of Mikobata Ore Dressing Plant stand as a testament to Japan's industrial modernization in the early 20th century. Located in Asago City, Hyogo Prefecture, this site once served as the processing center for ore mined from the nearby Akenobe Mine. Initially a mine itself, Mikobata was transformed into an ore processing facility in 1917, with full operations beginning in 1919. Built on a steep hillside, the plant utilized gravity to move ore through various crushing, grinding, and chemical separation processes. At its peak, it was recognized as the largest mineral processing plant in the Orient, operating continuously 24 hours a day and earning the nickname "the city that never sleeps" due to its illuminated nighttime operations.

The facility played a crucial role in Japan's mining industry until the closure of Akenobe Mine in 1967, which led to the plant's own shutdown. During its most prosperous period, approximately 1,300 people lived in the Mikobata area, forming a thriving community around the industrial complex. The site extracted and processed 70 types of ore, primarily copper, zinc, and tin, which were essential to Japan's industrial development. The massive 22-floor concrete structure stretched 110 meters in width and processed ore brought down from the mountain via an extensive rail network.

Today, visitors can explore the dramatic concrete foundations and remaining infrastructure, including the impressive thickener structure that dominates the landscape. The ruins form part of the "Ore Road" heritage trail connecting Mikobata with Ikuno Silver Mine and Akenobe Mine. On-site attractions include the Mikobata Communication Center, which features diorama exhibitions and videos documenting the plant's operational history, and the relocated residence of French geologist Emil Theophile Mouchet, now serving as a museum displaying photographs and models from the plant's active years.

The One Yen Train, which transported workers between Akenobe Mine and Mikobata from 1945 to 1985, is preserved at the site. Visitors can also view Japan's oldest cast-iron bridge, built in 1887 and designated as a National Important Cultural Property, which once transported ore to the Ikuno refinery. In spring, the area becomes particularly scenic when Oriental paper bush flowers bloom and cherry blossoms add color to the industrial ruins.

The site is accessible via the Asago City Community Bus (Ako Bus) from JR Nii Station, with services operating on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. Admission to the outdoor ruins is free, though the museum has standard entrance fees. The dramatic concrete structures provide excellent photography opportunities, particularly as vegetation gradually reclaims the industrial architecture, creating a striking contrast between nature and human engineering.