Momijiyama Imperial Cocoonery, Silkworm nursery in Chiyoda, Japan
The Momijiyama Imperial Cocoonery is a silkworm breeding facility in Tokyo that maintains four different silkworm varieties, including hybrids developed from Japanese and Chinese strains. The operation uses traditional methods without air conditioning, relying on natural conditions for rearing.
The facility was established in 1914 and continues an imperial sericulture practice that began in 1871 under Empress Dowager Shoken. The tradition passed through successive generations and remains an active part of imperial life today.
The silkworm breeding here remains a personal duty of the Empress, who tends to the insects as part of imperial tradition. The silk produced serves primarily to repair and restore precious textiles from Japan's past, making it a living link to historical craftsmanship.
Public access to the facility is limited, and visitors should focus on the exterior grounds since the interior area is reserved for imperial use. Advance registration is recommended, and the best time to visit is during the feeding season in spring and summer.
The Koishimaru silkworms raised here produce silk threads of such specialized quality that they are the only known source worldwide for restoring Japan's most precious historical textiles. This rare strain is difficult to breed and exists only at this location.
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