Memories and Displays of Japan's Early Industrialisation through the Production of Silk

A study on Tomioka Silk Mill, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2014, reveals the complex legacy of Japan's early industrialization through silk production. Established in 1872, this mill was a pioneer in modern silk reeling, driving Japan's export economy during the Meiji era. However, the research uncovers a darker narrative: despite being one of the most advanced workplaces for young women at the time, the mill's strict regulations, child labor, and long working hours inflicted significant trauma on its workers. The study uses historical documentation and worker testimonies to illustrate the dual nature of Japan's industrial rise—highlighting both economic progress and the human cost behind it.

Kimura, T. (2023). Memories and Displays of Japan’s Early Industrialisation through the Production of Silk. Routledge Handbook of Trauma in East Asia, 158–168. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781003292661-15