Sakaneguchi Checkpoint Site

In the early 1600s, when the central government took direct control of Iwami Ginzan, a perimeter fence went up around the mine with checkpoints at every exit. Guards at these posts collected taxes, prevented silver smuggling, and controlled who could enter the mining zone. Sakaneguchi was the last checkpoint on the road to the port of Yunotsu, the main route for materials moving in and out of the mine, making it one of the most strategically important posts. No trace of the checkpoint building remains, but the road to Yunotsu still exists. From this site, it passes over a mountain and through the village of Nishita to reach the port, roughly five hours on foot.