Wakuya Manyo no Sato Tenpyo Roman-kan

Wakuya Town in Miyagi Prefecture is known as the first place in Japan where gold was produced. It is also famous for the 900 ryo of gold (Approx. 13 kg) presented to the capital of Nara and used for the Great Buddha of Todai-ji Temple. At Wakuya Manyo no Sato, centered around the nationally designated historic site Koganeyama Gold Production Ruins, you can learn about the history of gold production that has been passed down in this area.

The site is made up of three areas: a historic site zone centered on the grounds of Koganeyama Shrine, a Japan Heritage site worshipped as a deity of good fortune in money matters, a ruins plaza developed as a park where you can enjoy traces of the Manyo period and the changing seasons, and Tenpyo Roman-kan, which introduces gold production techniques from the Nara period and the construction of Todai-ji Temple through a variety of materials. At Tenpyo Roman-kan, you can try gold panning and gemstone hunting. The gold flakes and gemstones you find can be taken home, making it a popular activity for visitors of all ages.

There is also a restaurant where you can enjoy seasonal local ingredients and regional specialties, as well as a market that is convenient for picking out souvenirs such as sweets and gold leaf crafts. At the tea room Kugané-an, notable for its striking golden alcove, you can also enjoy a set of tea and Japanese sweets (extra charge).