Towel Museum

The Towel Museum in Imabari, Ehime Prefecture, Japan, is the world's first museum dedicated to towels. Located in a city that produces approximately 60% of Japan's domestic towels, this unique facility opened in 1999 to showcase the region's renowned textile industry. Imabari has been a center of towel manufacturing since the late 19th century, and the museum celebrates this local heritage while demonstrating the artistry and craftsmanship behind towel production.

The museum stands out for its focus on Imabari towels, which have earned international recognition for their superior absorbency, softness, and durability. These qualities stem from the region's soft water and rigorous quality standards. Visitors can observe the evolution of towel-making techniques through various exhibits that display both historical and contemporary examples. The museum also features colorful towel art installations and demonstrates how traditional weaving methods have been preserved alongside modern manufacturing innovations.

The main visitor experience includes exhibitions showing the towel production process from raw cotton to finished product. Interactive displays allow guests to touch and compare different towel qualities, helping them understand what makes Imabari towels distinctive. The museum houses a gift shop offering a wide selection of authentic Imabari towels in various designs, colors, and sizes, making it a popular destination for those seeking high-quality Japanese textile souvenirs. Workshops are occasionally available where visitors can learn basic weaving techniques.

The Towel Museum is accessible from Imabari Station via local bus services, with the journey taking approximately 15 to 20 minutes. Visitors traveling from major cities can reach Imabari by train from Matsuyama or via the Shimanami Kaido expressway, which connects the city to Hiroshima Prefecture. Admission fees are generally around 800 yen for adults and reduced rates apply for children and seniors. The museum provides parking facilities for those arriving by car.