What is Tsubame?

The brand of metal processing

Tsubame City 燕市, Located in Niigata Prefecture, Japan, is world-famous for metal processing. Although most regional industries in Japan have now disappeared or been eliminated, the metal processing in Tsubame City is still circulating today. Some said that "Tsubame conforms to historical changes, and thus stands firm." It is true that Tsubame City keeps pace with the times in response to the needs, and its technology has gradually become perfect.

During the Edo period 江戸時代, frequent floods in Tsubame City destroyed crops, so farmers began to manufacture Japanese Nail, and metal processing began to develop. Later, during the Westernization period of the Meiji Restoration, the metal processing technology of Tsubame City was well received, so large quantities of Western-style high-quality metal tableware were manufactured and supplied to the whole country. During the First World War, Western-style tableware from Tsubame City was even supplied to Russia.

During the Second World War, however, production was again forced to stop due to the tightening of export controls and the worsening situation of the war. In spite of that, there was a high demand for Western-style tableware after the war, which then gradually recovered the industry in Tsubame City. At present, Tsubame City not only produces Western-style tableware, but also produces a large variety of metal products.

Tsubame City has now become a synonym for metal processing. It is now a well-known brand.

"Made in TSUBAME" not only witnesses the metal processing history of Tsubame City, but also symbolizes the tradition, glory and spirit of the craftsmen in this industry. Products must be formed, assembled, and processed in Tsubame City and nearby areas to be worthy of the title "Made in TSUBAME". Look at how the craftsmen were making beautiful chef's knives in Tsubame City: