About Arafune Cold Storage

The Arafune Fuketsu windhole in Gunma Prefecture is the site of a storage facility that played an important role in the development of sericulture in modern Japan, and is registered as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site. This windhole was used as a refrigeration facility to preserve silkworm seeds (silkworm eggs) from the late 19th century to the early 20th century.

What makes Arafune Wind Cave unique is its use of the natural refrigeration effect. The year-round low temperature environment inside the windhole was suitable for long-term preservation of silkworm eggs, thereby providing high-quality silkworm eggs and having a great impact on the sericulture industry in Japan and abroad. The wind holes skillfully utilized natural caves to create a unique ventilation system, which maintained an optimal environment for the preservation of silkworms.

One of the highlights of the site is the structure inside the windhole. Visitors can actually go inside the wind cave and experience its cool air. The inside of the cave is cool, and visitors can intuitively understand the technology used to preserve silkworms at that time. The natural environment around the wind cave is also beautiful, and visitors can enjoy the scenery of each of the four seasons. In particular, spring with its fresh green foliage and autumn with its autumn leaves are the best seasons for visitors.

Furthermore, Arafune Wind Cave has high historical value and is in a very good state of preservation. The facilities and equipment inside and outside the windhole have been preserved as they were in their original state, and visitors can learn about the historical background and technical ingenuity of the windhole. This makes it a valuable heritage site that offers a glimpse into the industrial development of modern Japan.

Highly recommended are the guided tours and the exhibited materials. During the guided tour, a professional guide will explain in detail about the history, structure, and preservation techniques of the wind pits. In addition, visitors can obtain detailed information about the sericulture industry of the time and the use of windpits through the exhibited materials. Through these tours and materials, visitors can gain a better understanding of the overall picture of Arafune Wind Cave.

Overall, Arafune Wind Cave is a special tourist attraction that combines its unique refrigeration technology, historical value, and beautiful natural environment. It provides visitors with deep impressions and learning experiences, and its special atmosphere is an unforgettable experience once you visit.