The history of the Sado Gold and Silver Mines is ancient. According to the 12th-century literature "Konjaku Monogatari Shu," Sado was already known as an island where gold dust could be found.

After the opening of the Aikawa Gold and Silver Mine in 1601, the area became a territory under the direct control of the Edo Shogunate. As development progressed, it grew into Japan's largest mine, boasting one of the highest production levels in the world.

The gold and silver produced here were used as currency. They were transported from Sado (Aikawa and Ogi) across the sea to Izumozaki Port. From there, the treasures traveled along the Hokkoku Kaido—the main route—passing through Oiwake-shuku (present-day Karuizawa) and onto the Nakasendo, finally arriving at Edo Castle to support the Shogunate's finances.

This transport route, spanning approximately 400 kilometers to Edo, is known as "The Road of Gold" or "The Road of Shogunate Gold (Okaneni-no-michi)." To this day, many historical and cultural landmarks remain along this path.