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Massive concrete structures wrapped in greenery and moss create a mystical sight.
The “Kitazawa Flotation Plant Site” on Sado Island in Niigata Prefecture resembles a scene straight out of Studio Ghibli’s “Castle in the Sky.” Once an essential facility for Sado’s gold mines, this industrial heritage has been transformed into an enchanting site by the power of nature.
During the day, visitors can admire the majestic, moss-covered ruins blending with nature, while at night, a stunning illuminated world awaits. This historic site offers a different ambiance depending on the time of visit, making it a must-see attraction.
Amazingly, this otherworldly space is open for free 24/7.
Born from Sado’s unique natural beauty, this industrial ruin has become a new work of art. This article will introduce the overwhelming presence and distinctive beauty of this site—a highly recommended destination for anyone visiting Sado Island!
The Kitazawa Flotation Plant Site, located in the Aikawa area of Sado City, Niigata Prefecture, is an industrial heritage site that operated as an ore processing facility from 1938 to 1973. It functioned as a flotation plant to process the ores extracted from the Sado mines. Today, the site is open to the public, and its night lighting adds an ethereal glow to its impressive structure.
The Kitazawa Flotation Plant Site is a remarkably dynamic ruin. The massive concrete buildings, overtaken by nature, create a surreal scene that feels like stepping into a world inspired by Ghibli’s “Castle in the Sky.”
A closer look reveals that the rooms have unique shapes, giving the building an otherworldly appearance. The sheer size and distinct shapes create an uncanny sense of being in a different world—like an ancient Roman ruin or a setting far removed from reality. One can’t help but wonder what activities once filled this facility when it processed ores for the Sado mines.
The only certainty is its beauty.
The crumbling human-made structures overtaken by nature resemble the worlds depicted in Ghibli movies.
The Kitazawa Flotation Plant Site also houses a colossal 50-meter diameter structure known as the Thickener.
The Thickener was a “mud ore concentrator” used in the ore processing stage. This facility separated water from the mud-like ore, concentrating the minerals. The ore was introduced into the Thickener, where gravity separated the minerals from the water. The minerals were sent to the next process, while the water was reused.
Built in 1938, the Thickener was among the largest of its kind in Japan at the time, significantly boosting ore processing efficiency.
The size of the Thickener leaves a strong impression, even without understanding its purpose. At first glance, it looks like an ancient Roman amphitheater or a stadium, creating a sense of disbelief. Yet, the Thickener has also been claimed by nature, imbuing it with a haunting beauty that resonates with a touch of melancholy.
Indeed, it’s beautiful. This is the true allure of ruins.
One of the main highlights of the Kitazawa Flotation Plant Site is its nighttime illumination. Bathed in light, the ruins take on a surreal, mystical aura against the dark sky.
The Thickener is also illuminated, adding a touch of artistry to the colossal ruin. The illuminated ruins create an atmosphere that is nothing short of art.
【2024】Kitazawa Flotation Plant Site Illumination - Sado City
The Kitazawa Flotation Plant Site has free parking, making it convenient for those traveling by car. There are restrooms available in the parking area.
Take a local bus operated by Niigata Kotsu Sado Co., Ltd. and get off at the “Aikawa Museum-mae” bus stop. The Kitazawa Flotation Plant Site is right in front of the stop.
Three bus lines stop at “Aikawa Museum-mae”: the Main Line, Nanura Coast Line, and Kaifu Line (weekdays only).
Route Buses | Niigata Kotsu Sado Co., Ltd.
The Kitazawa Flotation Plant Site has transcended its role as a former industrial facility, becoming a work of art. The majestic ruins blend with nature by day, while illuminated at night, they take on a more surreal beauty reminiscent of “Castle in the Sky.”
The sheer scale of the site is something that can only be fully appreciated in person, especially the 50-meter diameter structure, the Thickener.
The unique beauty of these decaying structures, embraced by nature yet unable to fully return, creates an extraordinary sight. The Kitazawa Flotation Plant Site is etched with many stories, including the memories of those who once worked here.
This distinctive site is a must-visit for photography enthusiasts, architecture fans, history lovers, and those fascinated by ruins.
Just five minutes away by car is the Sado Gold Mine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a 400-year history. At the Sado Gold Mine, visitors can explore the Edo-era mining tunnels and experience how mining was conducted in the past. Combining a visit to the Kitazawa Flotation Plant Site and the Sado Gold Mine offers a deeper experience of Sado’s mining history.
When visiting Sado, make sure to add this mystical industrial heritage site to your itinerary. Its grandeur and beauty will leave a lasting impression.
