Japan's textile industry began modernizing with the government-run Tomioka Silk Mill in the Meiji era. Before WWII, cotton spinning was the largest export industry, with Kanebo, Toyobo, and Unitika forming enterprise groups rivaling the zaibatsu. After the war, Toray, Teijin, and Asahi Kasei rose to prominence through synthetic fibers, achieving world-class technology in nylon and polyester. From the 1970s onward, low-cost Asian production eroded commodity textiles, prompting a pivot to high-performance fibers, carbon fiber, and films. Toray's carbon fiber is a primary structural material in the Boeing 787, and Teijin holds a top global share in aramid fiber. With textiles now accounting for only about 20% of revenue, the transformation from 'textile manufacturer' to 'advanced materials company' is the industry's defining theme.
Founded in 1882. Established as Japan's first private spinning company, it transitioned to synthetic fibers including rayon, acrylic, and polyester. Expanding into non-textile fields such as films, biotechnology, and medical products, it transformed into a functional materials manufacturer through repeated plant closures and business restructuring.
Founded in 1887. Grew into Japan's largest spinning company by leading a grand consolidation of spinning firms in the Meiji era, and diversified into cosmetics. However, the failure of its diversification strategy and textile industry downturn led to insolvency, culminating in the tragic dissolution of the company in 2007.
Founded in 1926. Starting as a rayon manufacturer, the company grew into a major synthetic fiber producer through technology licensing of nylon and polyester. It became the first in the world to successfully mass-produce carbon fiber, securing an overwhelming share in aircraft materials. It evolved into an advanced materials manufacturer.
Founded in 1918. Starting as Teikoku Rayon, the company diversified into synthetic fibers including polyester and nylon. It also expanded into pharmaceuticals, IT, and carbon fiber, breaking away from its founding rayon business. Through the acquisition of aramid fiber operations and strengthening of healthcare, it transformed into a materials-pharmaceutical conglomerate.