Tomioka Travel Tips

Tomioka (富岡), nestled in the southwestern part of Gunma Prefecture, is celebrated for its historical significance as the site of Japan’s first modern silk factory, the Tomioka Silk Mill. Established in 1872 during the Meiji Period, the mill played a pivotal role in revolutionizing the silk industry. By incorporating advanced industrial technology, it transformed silk production into a major economic driver for Japan, fueling the nation's rise as a global economic power. The mill's innovative processes and equipment were a model for subsequent factories across Japan, shaping the nation's textile industry for years to come.

Today, the Tomioka Silk Mill stands as a well-preserved UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering visitors a glimpse into Japan's industrial heritage. In addition to the mill, the surrounding area is home to three other significant sites that highlight the country’s silk production history. The Tajima Yahei Sericulture Farm is renowned for its pioneering research on silkworm egg production, while the Arafune Cold Storage, an essential facility for preserving silkworm eggs using natural cooling methods, showcases innovative agricultural practices. The Takayama-sha Sericulture School, once a hub for advancing silkworm cultivation techniques, completes the collection of heritage sites that collectively narrate the transformative story of Japan’s silk industry.