The railway networks have been developed since the temporary opening of Shinagawa-Yokohama line May in the 5th year of Meiji (1872), which have deeply related to the development of industry.
A railroad map from Tokyo to Takasaki and Maebashi submitted by Minister of Industry, Sasaki Takayuki, to Grand Minister of State, Sanjo Sanetomi, on December 23, 1881. Japan Railway Co. started service between Ueno and Kumagaya in July, 1883. The railway was eandtended to Takasaki and Maebashi in the following year. In March, 1885, Japan Railway Co. opened a line from Shinagawa to Shinjuku and Akabane, connecting it to a government railway. This allowed transport of raw silk from Maebashi and Takasaki to Yokohama by railway. Original size: 37cm and 124cm.