Experience the history of Japan's modernization at the World Heritage Tomioka Silk Mill
Introduction
Tomioka Silk Mill, located in Tomioka City, Gunma Prefecture, is a government-run silk mill established by the Meiji government to modernize Japan. Opened in 1872, it has greatly contributed to the development of the silk industry not only in Japan but also throughout the world. It was registered as a World Heritage Site in 2014 and is visited by many tourists. In this article, we will introduce the attractions, history, culture, recommended spots in the area, and how to get to Tomioka Silk Mill.
The charm of Tomioka Silk Mill
The greatest attraction of Tomioka Silk Mill is that the buildings and machines from the time of its founding remain almost intact. The silk reeling factory, which has been designated as a national treasure, is a building that combines French and Japanese technology such as timber-framed brick construction and truss construction. You can also visit the "Cocoon Warehouse" and "Higashire". These buildings form the core of the “Tomioka Silk Mill and Group of Silk Industry Heritage Sites” registered as a World Heritage Site.
The history and culture of Tomioka Silk Mill
Tomioka Silk Mill is one of the government-run model factories established by the Meiji government to transform Japan into a modern nation. At that time, silk was Japan's largest export product, and the stable production of high-quality silk was important. Therefore, engineers and machinery were invited from France and the Tomioka Silk Mill was constructed in cooperation with the Japanese. About 300 female workers worked at the Tomioka Silk Mill, and they worked hard to produce silk under strict discipline and working conditions. They were called "peasants", but they were actually daughters selected from farmers. Working at the Tomioka Silk Mill enabled them to earn a salary and an education, but at the same time they were separated from their families and loved ones. We can learn about their lives and thoughts from the letters and diaries that have survived to this day.
Around the Tomioka Silk Mill, there are many sightseeing spots and gourmet information where you can fully enjoy the world heritage and retro townscape. Here are a few.
Recommended spots around Tomioka Silk Mill
Konnyaku Park: A konjac theme park where everyone from children to adults can enjoy themselves all day long. You can observe the history and manufacturing process of konnyaku, try making konnyaku yourself, and sample various types of konnyaku. You can also enjoy dishes and sweets using konnyaku at restaurants and shops.
Takada Strawberry Farm: The only strawberry picking tourist farm in Tomioka. From December to May, you can eat all-you-can-eat about 30 kinds of strawberries. Sweet and juicy strawberries will satisfy adults and children alike. The farm also sells processed products such as strawberry jam and dried fruits.
Don't miss Gunma Safari Park, Gunma Prefectural Museum of Natural History, and Ichinomiya Nukimae Shrine. Be sure to visit it together with the Tomioka Silk Mill.
Here is a website where you can obtain detailed information about Tomioka Silk Mill.
