Tomika Silk Mill

Tomika Silk Mill is Japan's first government-run model silk mill and a designated national treasure and world cultural heritage site. There are two types of tours available: self-guided and guided tours. The self-guided tour costs 150 yen for adults, is free for junior high school students and younger, and costs 100 yen for high school and university students with a student ID. Those with a disability certificate and one caregiver can enter for free. For guided tours, advance reservations are required and the fee starts at 500 yen per person. By participating in the tour, you can learn deeper knowledge and history, and the guide will show you around efficiently!

The main buildings of Tomioka Silk Mill have been designated as a national treasure and a world cultural heritage site, and are well-preserved in almost the same condition as when they were first established. The Tomioka Silk Mill contributed to the technological innovation and exchange of the silk industry, and was active as a large-scale silk factory from the Meiji to the Showa period. It remains a valuable presence in terms of architectural and industrial history, as it has been preserved in its original state from that time. The highlights of Tomioka Silk Mill include the rare brick buildings for a machine silk factory at that time, as well as steam engines from the industrial revolution period, which give a glimpse into the technological capabilities of the time. In addition, the cocoon warehouse in the factory has a unique structure using wooden tension members, making it a beautiful building. Inside the building, the machines and materials from that time are on display, creating a historical atmosphere. It is said to be an attractive tourist spot, and many people become captivated after visiting once!

At the Tomioka Silk Mill Museum, you can learn about the process of making silk. The museum displays the machines and tools necessary for silk production, allowing you to learn about the history and development of silk technology. In addition, detailed explanations of the silk production process are provided through videos and panel displays. There is also a corner where you can experience silk production by actually operating the machines. Inside the museum, there is also a museum where you can learn about the history of the Tomioka Silk Mill. After visiting the museum, you can also tour the inside of the Tomioka Silk Mill building!

At the Tomioka Silk Mill shop, there are a variety of local specialty products and goods, in addition to thread and silk products. Silk thread products, hand towels, food such as sweets and sake, and goods are sold, and there are also original products that convey the history of the Tomioka Silk Mill. In addition, there is an exhibition of the silk-making process for thread and silk products, so you can enjoy shopping while learning how the products are made. The Tomioka Silk Mill shop is a popular and valuable place where you can feel the history and culture of the Tomioka Silk Mill. Why not visit and see for yourself?

Gunma Safari Park is a safari park where you can observe various animals while touring by car or bus. It's located about 20 minutes by car from the Tomioka Silk Mill, a World Heritage Site, and is situated on a vast site known as the kingdom of wildlife, where various animals are allowed to roam free. In the park, there are about 70 species and over 500 animals, including Asian elephants, Sumatran elephants, chimpanzees, orangutans, lions, tigers, giraffes, zebras, rhinoceroses, kangaroos, and flamingos, which can be seen up close from your car. In addition, there are activities such as walk-throughs where you can observe animals up close, feeding experiences, and horseback riding, making it a recommended spot for families!