Tsubame-Sanjo’s Top-Quality and Long-Lasting Knives – and How to Purchase Them

Starting to show a presence in the global market, one of the Tsubame-Sanjo area's significant companies, TOJIRO, produces some of the sharpest, high-quality hand-made knives in the world.Take a look at how its knives are carefully made at its factory.Purchase a knife that you like.Have the workers carve your name in it.This is something you can only experience by actually step foot into TOJIRO's gallery and factory in Tsubame-Sanjo, Niigata.<div

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Tsubame-Sanjo, a Traditional Metalwork-Manufacturing Region

Tsubame-Sanjo refers to the cities of Tsubame and Sanjo in Niigata Prefecture, located in the middle of Japan. Although both cities are small, with populations of 80,000 and 100,000, the area is known for its high-quality metalwork products. The region's manufacturing industry started off 400 years ago; first with Japanese nail production followed by metal goods, tableware, and knives for professional and daily use.

TOJIRO, a Renowned Knife Manufacturing Company in the Area

One of the major companies that have contributed to the growth of the region is TOJIRO. TOJIRO is a traditional knife maker that combines innovative metalworking technology and traditional craftsmanship to produce knives with the highest cutting quality. An interesting fact is that some of the traditional knife-manufacturing skills were inherited from the Edo period (1603-1868) when samurai swords were manufactured. While keeping tradition alive, TOJIRO has adapted their style in times of change. Although they depend on modern technology for part of their knife-making process, a lot of the detailed work is still done carefully by hand. Since July 2017, TOJIRO has opened their TOJIRO Knife Factory for visitors to see. They have tours to show visitors how carefully each and every knife is made. Visitors can also experience making a paper cutter if they wish. The knives are sold to more than 50 countries, and names and messages can be engraved for customers.

A Perfect Gift

TOJIRO started to sell their knives overseas in 2004, and now exports directly to 50 countries. They now produce a wide range of knives for both professional cooks and families, including traditional Japanese knives. At TOJIRO Knife Gallery, visitors can take a look at the various knives on display, and actually hold them in their hands to check the quality and grip. At this gallery, they display new models that are not on the market yet, knives that are not for sale in Japan, and customized knives that are made at TOJIRO’S Knife Atelier. Visitors can purchase a knife at this gallery, and have a craftsman carve a name, mark or message into the purchased knife on the spot. A knife with their name engraved would be a perfect gift for those who love to cook.

Information

It takes about two hours by bullet train from Tokyo to Tsubame-Sanjo (Niigata) Station. From Tsubame Sanjo Station, take the Yahiko Line to Yoshida Station (12 minutes). From there, the TOJIRO Knife gallery is a 5-minute walk.

Address:
Yosui Toei Town, Tsubame-shi, Niigata 959-0232 (Tojiro Open Factory)
9-5 Yoshida Higashi Sakae-cho, Tsubame, Niigata (Tojiro Knife Gallery)
TEL: +81-256-93-4195