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[Gunma Prefecture ]Highlights and recommended places in Kiryu, the city of textiles

[Gunma Prefecture ]Highlights and recommended places in Kiryu, the city of textiles

2024-09-10

Kiryu City in Gunma Prefecture is called "the city of textiles ".
The silk industry, which is said to have continued since the Nara period (710-794), is so famous that its name is well known both within and outside of the prefecture.
The silk spinning industry and sericulture industry for producing silk yarn are also prevalent, and there are many historical buildings in the city.
Its beautiful structure has attracted many people and is now known as a tourist resource.
In addition, there are many other must-visit places in Kiryu City.
In this issue, we will summarize the sights and recommended places to visit in Kiryu City.

Author of this article

Touring Historical Buildings




Kiryu City has many buildings related to textiles.
However, in fact, many other historical buildings are still in existence.
A leisurely tour of these period-inspired spots is perfect for an "adult" trip.
It is also recommended as a date course.

Sawtooth Roof Factory




Literally, the roof of the factory is jagged like the teeth of a saw.
This unusual shape was originally popularized in England.
The technique was introduced to the Japanese who came to England, and spread widely from the Meiji period to the early Showa period.
In Kiryu City, this saw-roof factory was built as a spinning mill.
Why does the roof have a sawtooth shape? It is for "lighting.
By having more windows on the upper east side, light can be brought into the factory.
In addition to being functional, the beauty of its design is also noteworthy.




Goto Orimono is a long-established obi manufacturer that has been operating in Kiryu City for over 150 years.
In the past, spinning and other activities were conducted in this wooden saw-roof factory.
The warehouse that preserves cocoons before they are turned into thread and the warehouse that preserves the textiles made from them still remain, making it a very valuable place to see the entire textile production process.
Reservations are required to visit (Goto Orimono, 0277-45-2406).
The buildings, which have quietly retained their appearance after their role as factories, are a must-see for those who want to learn about the history of Kiryu City.


"Spot Information "
Spot Name: Goto Orimono
Address: 1-11-35, Higashi, Kiryu-shi, Gunma 376-0034
Access: 20 minutes by car from Ota-Kiryu IC on Kita-Kanto Expressway
Phone number: 0277-45-2406 (tours by appointment)
URL:https://bunka.nii.ac.jp/heritages/detail/190140

Bakery Cafe Brick




One of the most popular bakeries in Kiryu City.
The former Sawtooth Roof Factory has been renovated as a store.
There are scattered examples of this type of restaurant in Kiryu City, but this one is probably the most famous.
There is also a café space in the store.
The special feeling of enjoying delicious bread, drinks, and sweets under a sawtooth roof is something to behold.
It is also a good place to take a break from traveling and have lunch.




Also available at the bakery: "sawtooth French toast "is one of the most popular items at the brick.
It is a sweet bread that is kawaii in the shape of a sawtooth roof.
Please try it as a snack for your trip.


"Store Information "
Name: Bakery Cafe Brick
Address: 1-1-55 Higashikugata-cho, Kiryu-shi, Gunma 376-0053
Access: 8 minutes by car from Kiryu Station on the JR Ryomo Line
Approximately 18 minutes on foot
Phone number: 0277-32-5553
Hours of operation: Monday-Friday 8:00-18:00
Saturday, Sunday, national holidays and days before holidays 7:00-18:00
Closed: Year-end, other irregular holidays
Budget: ³,000
Smoking and non-smoking: Only terrace seating is permitted in the café space.
Space and Facilities: Calm space, parking available, cafe space available
URL:https://www.kiryu-renga.jp/

Denken area (Kiryu Shinmachi important traditional building group preservation area)




Honmachi 1-chome to 2-chome, Kiryu City is the center of Kiryu City.
What remains here is the "old town.
Buildings constructed from the late Edo period to the early Showa period and the original plots where the town was born have been preserved as they were.
Stepping into this area is like stepping back in time to an age of old tales.
We invite you to view this magical scene where modern landscape and history are in harmony.

Yanoen, Arinokan




There is a warehouse used for brewing that was opened by an Omi merchant in the Edo period.
Omi merchants were people who came from what is now called Shiga Prefecture to do business.
The red brick building is a symbol of the Denken area.




It is now inherited as Yanoen, which sells tea, rice, and souvenirs, and Yurinkan, which is used as a multipurpose space.
Yanoen also operates "Omiya Kihei "where you can enjoy lunch, dinner and tea.
It is located on the same site, so we recommend that you stop by.


"Store Information "
Name: Yanoen, Yurinkan
Address: 2-6-30 Honmachi, Kiryu-shi, Gunma 376-0031
Access: Along Honmachi Dori, Kiryu City
Phone number: 0277-45-2925
Business hours: 9:30-18:30
Closed: Mondays, Year-end and New Year holidays, other irregular holidays
Calculation: ¥1,000 to
Space and Facilities: Calm space, parking available
URL:https://www.kkyanoen.com/

Kiryu Tenmangu Shrine




The urban development of the Denken area began with this shrine as its center.
The shrine is dedicated to Michizane Sugawara and Ama-no-Hohi-no-mikoto, and is believed to be one of the "Five Great Tenjin of Kanto.
The main shrine and the hall of offerings were built in 1793.
It is distinctive, built on a large rock, and its technology is astonishing.




Another highlight is the beauty of the sculptures and decorations.
The dragons, which look as if they are about to start moving, are very powerful.
On the first Saturday of every month, we also hold an event called "Kiryu Tenmangu Antique Market ".


"Spot Information "
Spot name: Kiryu Tenmangu Shrine
Address: 1-2-1 Tenjin-cho, Kiryu-shi, Gunma 376-0052
Access: 5 minutes by car from Kiryu Station on JR Ryomo Line
Phone number: 0277-22-3628
URL:https://kiryutenjin.jp/

Playing in a theme park




Kiryu City has an amusement park with a popular retro atmosphere, a zoo, and insect-themed spots.
It is popular with families, friends traveling together, and couples on dates.
Please consider this as one of your plans.




A small hilly area is located almost in the middle of Kiryu City.
This is the one that stands there.
This amusement park has a retro atmosphere and has been used for media filming.
It looks cozy and there are not many attractions.
However, the "Ferris wheel," which offers a panoramic view of the city of Kiryu, and the "mini-rail" through the greenery are fun for both adults and children, and are perfect for creating memories.
The beauty of the scenery looks especially good on a sunny day.
Admission is free.
Fees are charged only for the use of attractions, but are very reasonable. (Adults including junior high school students and older: 200 per visit, junior high school students and younger: 100 per visit).
Lunch boxes are sold in the park on Saturdays and Sundays only, and there are also vending machines for beverages.


"Spot Information "
Spot Name: Earthcare Kiryuugaoka Amusement Park
Address: 4-1-1 Miyamoto-cho, Kiryu-shi, Gunma 376-0056
Phone number: 0277-22-7580
Hours of operation: March-October 9:00-17:00
Nov-Feb 9:30-16:00
Closed: Varies by month, check official website
Budget: Free admission
Adults (including junior high school students)200 per attraction
Less than high school students \100
Facilities: parking available, strollers and wheelchairs available for rent, space for nursing and diaper change
URL:https://www.city.kiryu.lg.jp/amusementpark/index.html

Future-proof Yamada Manufacturing Kiryu-gaoka Zoo

The zoo is located on the same site as Kiryuugaoka Amusement Park.
Admission and viewing of the animals is free of charge.
Like the amusement park, it is not large, but the number of animals kept in the park is quite impressive.
In addition to mammals such as lions, giraffes, and meerkats, there are also birds such as Humboldt penguins, and a small aquarium with many attractions.




In particular, the red panda house, newly built in 2022, is a must-see.
The cute red panda can be seen right in front of you, giving you a real sense of presence.
There are vending machines for drinks in the park.


"Store Information "
Store name: Future Era Hatake Yamada Seisakusho, Kiryu ga Oka Zoo
Address: 3-8-13 Miyamoto-cho, Kiryu-shi, Gunma 376-0056
Access: On the same site of Kiryugagaoka Amusement Park
Phone number: 0277-22-4442
Hours of operation: 9:00-16:30
Closed: Varies by month, check official website
Budget: Free admission
Facilities:Parking lot available
URL:https://www.city.kiryu.lg.jp/zoo/index.html

Gunma Insect Forest

The facility recreates a satoyama ecosystem on a vast 45-hectare site.
Its interesting theme makes it popular, especially among families.
In the "Insectarium," visitors can see insects living in the satoyama throughout the year, and can even try their hand at catching insects on the premises.
In the "Insect Friendship Greenhouse," visitors can enjoy a subtropical landscape and see a variety of butterflies in flight.
Recommended for families as well as adults who love insects.
The facility has a café where visitors can enjoy light meals such as curry rice and sauced pork cutlet bowl, drinks, and soft-serve ice cream.


"Facility Information "
Facility name: Gunma Prefecture Gunma Insect Forest
Address: 460-1 Tsurugaya, Niisatomura, Kiryu-shi, Gunma 376-0132
Access: 25 minutes by car from Isesaki IC on Kita-Kanto Expressway
Approximately 45 minutes by car from the Akagi IC of the Kanetsu Expressway
Phone number: 0277-74-6466
Hours of operation: 9:30-16:00
Closed: Monday; closed the following Tuesday when Monday is a national holiday
Accounting: Adults \410
University and high school students \200
No material for secondary school students
Note: No insects or plants may be taken home; no insect cages are allowed; please follow the directions of staff in the facility.
URL:http://www.giw.pref.gunma.jp/


Enjoy plants and landscapes




Kiryu City is located in a rich green environment.
There are many places of interest, such as gardens of shrines and temples and landscapes created by nature.
In this issue, we will introduce two ways to enjoy the event.

Houtokuji Temple




This is a temple where you can see "Toko-momiji" (floor maple), which is rare in Japan.
The fantastic sight of maple leaves reflected on the floor of the temple is a must-see.
The autumn foliage is exceptional, but the refreshing beauty of the fresh green foliage is also wonderful.
It is also known as the only temple in Japan where you can take pictures of floor maples, so why not try to capture them when you visit (the use of a tripod or monopod, prolonged photography, and commercial use are not permitted).
The floor maple is open to the public on a limited seasonal basis.
Please check the schedule on the official website.


"Facility Information "
Facility Name: Houtokuji Temple
Address: 5-1608 Kawauchi-cho, Kiryu-shi, Gunma 376-0041
Access: 30 minutes by car from Ota-Kiryu IC or Isesaki IC
Phone number: 0277-65-9165
Hours: 9:00 - 16:00 (closed at 14:30)
Closed: Open every day
Red seal: Available on Tuesdays, Fridays, and during the Bon Festival by leaving a note or by mail (available on holidays)
Budget: varies by season, check HP
Smoking and Eating: Prohibition of Smoking
Facilities: parking available, authentic Karesansui (dry landscape garden), seasonal events
URL:https://www.houtokuji.jp/

Enjoy the scenery in the railroad in Watarase Gorge.

The railroad runs from Kiryu City, Gunma Prefecture to Mafuji, Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture.
How about a relaxing journey on a windowless trolley train to enjoy the scenery?
Visitors can enjoy the beauty of each season: cherry blossoms, peach blossoms, and rape blossoms in the spring, fresh greenery in the summer, and autumn leaves in the fall.
The trolley train operates on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays from April to November.
Advance reservations are required, but same-day boarding is possible on regular trains with window glass (the route remains the same).


"Facility Information "
Facility name: The railroad company in Watarase Valley
Address: 1603-1, Omanma, Omanma-cho, Midori-shi, Gunma 376-0101
Access: 25 minutes by car from Ota-Yabuzuka IC
Approximately 30 minutes by car from Ota-Kiryu IC
Phone number: 0277-73-2110
Business hours: Inquiries 9:00-17:00
Budget: Trolley ticket Adult ¥520
Child ¥260
In addition, a regular passenger fare is required.

summary

We introduced some of the highlights and recommended spots in Kiryu City, Gunma Prefecture.
In addition to the places introduced here, Kiryu City has many other "good points".
Please visit various places and experience their charms.

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