Tomioka Silk Mill

Tomioka Silk Mill in Tomioka, Gunma Prefecture, stands as Japan's first modern, mechanized silk reeling factory and a pioneering symbol of the country's rapid industrialization during the Meiji era. Established in 1872 by the Japanese government with French technical assistance, the mill was designed to demonstrate Western silk production techniques and establish Japan as a competitive force in the global silk market. The factory operated continuously for over 115 years until its closure in 1987, making it one of the world's longest-operating silk mills.

Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014 as part of the "Tomioka Silk Mill and Related Sites," the complex represents a crucial chapter in Japan's transformation from an isolated feudal society to an industrial power. The mill's construction incorporated French expertise, particularly from engineer Paul Brunat, who supervised the project and designed the facility using a blend of Western architectural principles and Japanese materials and craftsmanship.

Visitors can explore the extensive factory complex, which covers approximately 54,000 square meters and includes several original buildings open to the public. The East Cocoon Warehouse and West Cocoon Warehouse, both measuring 104 meters in length, are impressive examples of Meiji-era industrial architecture.

The Silk Reeling Plant houses rows of original French-made silk reeling machines, offering insight into the mechanized production process that revolutionized Japan's silk industry. Guided tours and multilingual audio guides provide detailed explanations of the silk production process, the mill's historical importance, and daily life for the predominantly female workforce who operated the machinery.

The mill is located approximately 100 kilometers northwest of Tokyo. From Tokyo, take the JR Takasaki Line to Takasaki Station, then transfer to the Joshu Railway to Joshu-Tomioka Station, from where the mill is a 15-minute walk or short taxi ride. The journey takes roughly 2 hours from central Tokyo. Admission costs 1,000 yen for adults and 250 yen for high school and university students, with reduced rates for children and group visitors.