Besshi

Besshi is a city located in Ehime Prefecture on the island of Shikoku in Japan. The city has a population of approximately 14,000 people and covers an area of 324.52 square kilometers. It is situated in the mountains, with elevation ranges of 200-1,200 meters above sea level.

Besshi has a rich history dating back to the Edo period, with archaeological evidence of human habitation dating back even further. The city's name is derived from the term "Ainoshima", referring to the Ainu people who originally inhabited the area. During the 17th and 18th centuries, Besshi was a major copper-producing region, with mining activities taking place under the control of the Tokugawa shogunate.

In the Meiji period, Besshi's copper mines were nationalized and subsequently shut down in 1925. Today, the mining operations have been replaced by tourism and other industries, such as farming and woodland. Visitors to Besshi can explore various historical sites, including temples and festivals. Notably, the area is home to the Besshi Copper Mine Museum, which showcases the city's rich mining history and its significance in Japan's economic development.

The geology of Besshi is notable for its high-grade copper deposit vein type, with mineral deposits including chalcopyrite and bornite. The local volcanic rocks are rich in copper and are the source of the region's silver deposits.

The education system in Besshi consists of two high schools, four junior high schools, and thirteen elementary schools. The city hosts a number of cultural festivals and events throughout the year, providing visitors an insight into traditional Japanese culture.