Kagawa Gloves Museum

The Kagawa Glove Museum stands as a unique testament to Japan's leather craftsmanship heritage in Higashikagawa City, eastern Kagawa Prefecture. This specialized museum celebrates an industry that holds over 90% of Japan's domestic glove production market share, making almost all batting gloves and golf gloves used by professional athletes. The museum commemorates **120 years of local glove manufacturing, representing what can truly be called the history of gloves in Japan.

The museum's cultural significance lies in preserving the traditional craftsmanship that has sustained this regional industry for over a century. The facility showcases the skills and spirit that have been passed down in this area for more than 130 years, demonstrating how local artisans have maintained their expertise through changing economic conditions. The industry's evolution from meeting wartime demands to supplying professional sports equipment illustrates the adaptability of traditional Japanese manufacturing.

The museum building itself holds historical value as a renovated glove factory that operated until around 1998. Visitors can explore authentic displays featuring retro tools and vintage sewing machines, along with reproductions of Showa period glove workshops. Exhibitions include gloves worn by famous sports players, examples crafted from various materials, and historical manufacturing equipment. Guests can observe the complete glove manufacturing process and purchase original brand gloves from the on-site outlet store.

The museum is situated in Hiketa area within Higashikagawa City, accessible from major transportation hubs in Kagawa Prefecture. From Takamatsu Airport, travelers can take the limousine bus for 40 minutes to JR Takamatsu Station, then transfer to an express train to reach JR Hiketa Station. The museum operates with standard admission fees, though specific pricing information should be confirmed directly with the facility before visiting.