Japan's first modern government-run silk-reeling mill, built in the Meiji era — a red-brick World Heritage site that powered modern Japan's silk industry.
| Full name | Tomioka Silk Mill |
|---|---|
| World Heritage | Tomioka Silk Mill and Related Sites (2014) |
| Location | 1-1 Tomioka, Tomioka City, Gunma |
| Hours | Around 9:00–17:00 (varies by season) |
| Admission | Around 1,000 yen for adults |
| Access | ~15 min walk from Joshu-Tomioka Station |
| Best seasons | Year-round (spring and autumn are pleasant) |
Vast timber-and-brick buildings; the reeling hall with period machines is striking.
Shows the original power source; the guided tour explains it well.
A retro gate town good for a stroll and cafés.
Silk scarves, soap and cosmetics.
Silk-themed confections.
Cute cocoon-craft items.
Classic souvenirs can be ordered online. Replace the link after joining an affiliate program.
Order online (replace link)Tomioka set meals and café fare.
Joshu beef and local vegetables.
Desserts made with silk.
| Miyamoto-cho lot etc. | Paid parking near the mill. |
|---|---|
| Recommended | The Joshin railway is convenient; a guided tour is recommended. |
In busy periods, pre-book a nearby lot for peace of mind.
Reserve a parking spot (replace link)| Tomioka / Takasaki | Use bullet-train Takasaki as a base. |
|---|---|
| Isobe Onsen | Hot springs a little further out. |
Rooms sell out early in cherry-blossom and autumn seasons — book ahead.
Search hotels (replace link)Around 1,000 yen for adults; guided tours may cost extra. Check the official site.
About 1.5–2 hours with a careful look and a guided tour.
