Tomioka Silk Mill France Week 2026

About this event

This event lets you experience the more than 150-year connection between Tomioka Silk Mill and France through food, music, culture, and encounters with people. At the Little France Exhibition, which explores the story of France and Tomioka Silk Mill—an enterprise that brought innovation to the world through silk—panel displays feature felt hats from Bourg-de-Peage, the hometown of Paul Brunat, as well as the Cerdon copper works and the Bonnet silk factory. In addition, Cevennes, a rare silk variety, is introduced. A limited-time pop-up cafe will open in the National Treasure West Cocoon Warehouse, where visitors can enjoy drinks and light meals in a historic setting. You can also fully enjoy French tastes and culture with an indoor petanque experience, France's national sport, and the French Marche held in the courtyard of Tomioka Silk Mill. The market sells French-related foods such as Tomioka crepes and cheese, as well as local specialties, and offers an eat-in space. On stage, diverse guest artists will perform music, allowing you to spend the day feeling the breeze of France. A lottery with chances to win French goods, a petanque experience led by Damien from France, and free tasting samples of new Tomioka crepe items will also be held.

Venue

Tomioka Silk Mill

1-1 Tomioka, Tomioka, Gunma 370-2316