Tsubame-Sanjo Metalwork

The spirit of craftspeople who take pride in their skills and pursue quality without compromise. The attitude of prioritizing work quality over profit and dedicating a lifetime to refining one's craft forms the foundation of Japanese manufacturing. This value permeates every field, from sushi chefs to carpenters.

Cutlery including knives and scissors produced in Tsubame and Sanjo cities, Niigata Prefecture, continuing traditions of metalworking from the Edo period. The steel quality and craftsmanship are internationally recognized. Diverse products from kitchen knives to utensils are manufactured here.

Metalworking technology developed in Tsubame, Niigata Prefecture. Beginning with Japanese nail production in the Edo period, it has accumulated advanced metalworking expertise in Western cutlery, stainless steel products, and titanium processing. Known for producing the mirror finish on iPods, it is an industrial cluster where traditional craftsmanship meets cutting-edge technology.

The metalworking industry of Tsubame and Sanjo cities in Niigata Prefecture. Tsubame holds a major global share in stainless steel cutlery, while Sanjo is known for blades and tools. With 400 years of history starting from Japanese nail production, the advanced skills of artisans are trusted by world-class chefs and tool manufacturers.

Japan's first porcelain, originating in Arita, Saga Prefecture. Developed from techniques introduced from the Korean Peninsula in the 17th century, it captivated European royalty and nobility as 'Imari' ware exported through Imari port. With over 400 years of history, it continues to innovate today.

A uniquely Japanese technique of repairing broken ceramics with lacquer and gold powder. Its philosophy of elevating damage into beauty rather than concealing it symbolizes the Japanese aesthetic of finding beauty in imperfection. In recent years, it has attracted worldwide attention in art and design.

A traditional Japanese paper craft that creates various shapes by folding a single sheet of paper. It spread among common people during the Edo period, and senbazuru (thousand origami cranes) are known worldwide as a symbol of peace. Today it is applied in mathematics and engineering, contributing to space development and medical technology.