Imabari produces approximately 60% of all towels manufactured in Japan.
The museum features a 'towel cake' display where miniature pastries are crafted using various types of folded towels.
Some exhibits utilize a complex 'jacquard' weaving technique to produce high-definition imagery on cotton surfaces.
The museum complex is situated on a hillside, offering panoramic views of the surrounding Shikoku landscape.
The facility was established to revitalize the regional economy by highlighting the high-quality craftsmanship of local weaving houses.
The Towel Museum in Imabari is the world's only museum dedicated to the art and history of towel production, celebrating the region's status as Japan's premier towel manufacturing hub. Visitors can observe the textile manufacturing process, including automated looms and yarn-spinning displays. The facility houses an expansive permanent exhibition of complex towel art, including three-dimensional sculptures made entirely of cotton thread. A significant portion of the museum is devoted to the history of the Imabari towel industry, which accounts for over half of Japan's domestic production. The museum grounds include an expansive European-style garden that covers approximately 10,000 square meters. The complex also features retail galleries, textile-themed cafes, and studios where visitors can observe the production cycle from raw material to finished product.
The central European garden, which features seasonal floral displays and sculptures that contrast with the mountain backdrop.
Visit the gift shop for high-end Imabari-brand towels that are often unavailable in standard department stores.
Allocate time to explore the landscaped outdoor gardens, which are particularly notable during the blooming seasons.
Check the daily demonstration schedule at the entrance to ensure you see the mechanical looms in operation.
Do not rush through the lower-level manufacturing displays, as they provide essential context for the textile art galleries located on the upper floors.
Closed occasionally for maintenance; check the official website for irregular closures during the winter months.
