Tomioka Travel Tips

Tomioka (富岡) is a historic city in southwestern Gunma Prefecture, renowned for being home to Japan's first modern silk factory, established in 1872. The Tomioka Silk Mill was a pioneering force during the Meiji Period, showcasing cutting-edge methods that transformed Japan's silk industry and played a crucial role in its economic growth. As the oldest and one of the largest silk mills of its time, the factory was pivotal in exporting high-quality silk worldwide, earning a reputation for excellence. Today, the beautifully preserved original buildings of the mill stand as a testament to this rich history.

In addition to the Silk Mill, Tomioka is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which includes three other significant silk-related locations in the region. Visitors can explore the Tajima Yahei Sericulture Farm, known for its innovations in silkworm egg production, and the Arafune Cold Storage, which facilitated multiple annual harvests. Don't miss the Takayama-sha Sericulture School, where advances in silkworm rearing were introduced. Together, these sites offer a fascinating glimpse into the legacy of Japan's silk industry and its impact on the nation’s modernization.