What other travelers are saying about Tomioka Silk Mill
Sep 1, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed the site. I arrived at 2:30pm and spent 2 hours here. I could’ve spent 1 more hour if it hadn’t been for closing time at 5pm. I don’t know why there are so many bad ratings, as I found the ¥1,000 ticket price reasonable given the scale, historical significance, and upkeep needed for such a large site.
The explanations were clear and engaging, especially the immersive portrayal of the young women who worked there — their daily lives, relationships, and pride in contributing to Japan’s industrialization felt very realistic.
The site is quite large, so estimated visit times for each section would be helpful. I almost missed the left side with the production lines after spending too long elsewhere.
The exhibits and signage seem well revamped overall. However, the lack of English explanations in the first few rooms was concerning for a globally significant site, though English was available later and should be introduced earlier.
Frequently Asked Questions
A complete visit takes 1.5 to 2 hours. This includes time to walk through the main buildings, view the machinery, and review the exhibitions. Audio guide tours generally require closer to 2 hours.
Yes. Audio guides are available in English, French, Chinese, and Korean. Signage and exhibition materials include English translations throughout the complex. English guided tours can be arranged with advance booking.
The UNESCO designation includes three other sites in Gunma Prefecture: Tajima Yahei Sericulture Farm, Takayama-sha Sericulture School, and Arafune Cold Storage. These sites demonstrate different stages of silk production from sericulture to storage and are accessible as day trips from Tomioka.
Yes, photography for personal use is permitted throughout most of the facility. However, tripods, monopods, and commercial filming require advance permission. Flash photography may be restricted in certain exhibition areas to preserve artifacts. Visitors should check current photography policies at the entrance.
We were warned that this place is overly historical. Like where you go for a field trip. ...
BUT I loved this place. So interesting and hands on. It was very easy to appreciate the renovations and the original buildings. Also, the silkworms themselves were so interesting.
Underrated World Culture Heritage location. You'll be surprised on how little known to the International tourists. Maybe not everyone is interested in silk mills or textile history. Good job in preserving such an important era of human history.
Attraction: Nice place to visit on your way to your destination. Many buildings are closed, so you can only see them from the outside. There are two rather large buildings that you can walk through one has a second story with a few exhibits you can read about. There's not that much walking since the museum is quite small.
Fees: We paid $1,000 yen per person, but there are discounted rates for children.
Food: There are several places for small snacks and light meals outside of the museum. We didn't try any of them and so can't recommend.
Parking: There's no parking specific to the museum but there are small parking lots spread around town at the entry. Going rate is $500 yen for a full day.
