Partners Information: Tsubamesanjo in Niigata Prefecture is known for its metal industry, with a history dating back some 400 years to the Edo Period (1603 – 1867).
It first gained attention for its production of Japanese nails, and these days the industry of Tsubamesanjo inherited from pioneer craftsmen is used in the manufacturing of hand hammered metal crafts and sharp-edged craftsmen's tools. The majority of present-day Japan’s cutlery is produced in Tsubamesanjo, and the region even produces the cutlery used at the Nobel Prize Award banquet that follows the ceremony.
It’s easily accessed by shinkansen (bullet train) in around 2 hours from Tokyo, and is around 30 minutes from the Echigo Yuzawa Ski Resorts.
If you’re interested in Japanese craftsmanship and experiencing life like a local, consider adding a stay at Craftsmen’s Inn KAJI to your next itinerary. The traditional townhouse has over 80 years of history and has been renovated so you can enjoy modern comforts surrounded by old-world charm.
Reservations are limited to one group at a time, and it’s an easy 2-minute walk from Kita-Sanjo Station.
Various kinds of locally made products such as engraving knives, planers, and chisels are displayed in the rental and you can try using the products. The bathroom and kitchen are also equipped with locally made kitchen tools and tableware.
While there, consider joining a factory tour to gain a deeper insight into the production process behind products such as tsuiki (hand-hammered) copperware and kitchen knives. For more information on factory tours, take a look at the Tsubamesanjo “Open-Factory” map 
.
More information
- Official site | Craftsmen’s Inn KAJI
- Tsubamesanjo tourist information | Nine must-do’s in Tsubamesanjo
