The Birth of "Kana-mono no Machi" Tsubame-Sanjo from Battling Water Disasters

First, could you explain why Tsubame-Sanjo is called "Kana-mono no Machi (Ironmongery Town)"?

In the past, this area frequently experienced flooding. When floods occurred, farms were devastated. In response to this situation, farmers began making nails as alternative work. It is said that this led to the start of blacksmithing in the region.

Up until now, it's similar to other regions like Osaka, known for kitchen knives, or Kochi for hatchets; however, Tsubame-Sanjo had many wholesalers. Consequently, they could easily receive information about what sold well in Tokyo or Osaka, leading to an increase in blacksmiths who could respond to demands and produce various items.

Here at our company, we also manufacture woodworking blades, kitchen knives, and a variety of other items.

How many workshops are there currently?

In this area, there are probably around 30. In the past, many craftsmen were active, and there were workshops specialized in thin or thick knives, specifically for kitchen knives alone.

Currently, due to a lack of successors, the number of workshops is decreasing.

Unlike before, the social labor environment has changed, and since it is a field with a lot of dirt, we are experiencing a reality where new people are not entering the industry.