Tomioka Silk Mill

Tomioka Silk Mill | Japan's Oldest Modern Silk Reeling Factory

Tomioka Silk Mill is Japan's oldest modern silk reeling factory, having been established by the Japanese government in 1872. The silk mill was established several years after Japan opened its gates to trade with Western countries. During trade, silk was Japan's most important export. Problems arose when silk companies started producing low quality silk just for means of profit. To resolve this issue the Japanese government established the Tomioka Silk Mill and equipped the factory with modern machinery to ensure high quality silk production. Although their silk received great praise, Tomioka Silk Mill faced many financial hardships. The factory was privatized and eventually closed in 1987 when it could no longer compete with the low priced silk available from other Asian countries.

Gunma Tomioka Silk Mill | Related Pages