Metalwork Experience - Craft Your Own Sweets Cutters

Join us for an immersive experience at Kanemori Alloy, a heritage foundry that has upheld the art of traditional sand casting since its establishment in 1714. Located in the culturally rich city of Kanazawa, our renowned artisanal craftsmanship gives birth to exquisite aluminum sweets cutters adorned with iconic Kanazawa designs of pheasants, fish, and rabbits. Dive into the world of engraving as you customize your own piece with animal motifs, initials, or other inscriptions, creating a one-of-a-kind masterpiece to cherish.

Kanemori Alloy Company: Founded in 1714, our roots trace back to skilled metalworkers serving under Maeda Toshinaga, the lord of the Kaga Domain. We proudly continue the tradition of traditional sand casting, as well as the supply of metal components for rocketry. In 2019, we ventured into the lifestyle brand "KAMAHACHI," celebrating the functional beauty of metal materials in everyday life.

Select your preferred design from the "pheasant, fish, or rabbit" sweets cutters and use alphabet or numeric stamps to engrave your creation.

Traditional Sand Casting Factory Tour: Journey through our traditional sand casting foundry, a heritage preserved since 1714. We'll guide you through our current operating foundry, which has been active since 1970. Please note that the observation of the melting and pouring process is available during the 15:00 session, but this timing may vary based on our production schedule. In such cases, we will provide a tour of other aspects of the foundry.

Key Points of the Experience:

• These sweets cutters are collaborative creations born during the Kanazawa Craft Festival, featuring collaborations with traditional craftsmen from Kanazawa:

  • Miyazaki Kankichi, an artisan with roots in Maeda Toshinaga's official kettle makers, crafts the pheasant design.

  • Fishumi Yasunobu, a holder of an Important Intangible Cultural Property (Living National Treasure) title in the art of "copper gong" making, creates gongs used in tea ceremonies.

  • Kanemori Alloy has its roots in an ironworker who was appointed one of the seven master metalworkers (imoji) by Maeda Toshinaga, the lord of the Kaga Domain.

• Made with refined, Made-in-Japan durable materials that do not break easily, making them perfect gifts or personal keepsakes.

FAQ

1. What is the significance of the sweets cutters' designs, such as the pheasant, fish, and rabbit?
These designs are inspired by Kanazawa's rich cultural heritage. The pheasant, fish, and rabbit are iconic symbols of the region, each with its unique historical and cultural significance. The pheasant, for example, pays homage to Miyazaki Kankichi, an artisan with roots in Maeda Toshinaga's official kettle makers, who crafts the pheasant design.

2. How are the sweets cutters made, and what materials are used?
The sweets cutters are handcrafted using traditional sand casting, a technique with roots dating back to 1714. They are made from a food-grade aluminum alloy, refined at high temperatures of approximately 800°C. This process leverages in-house metal refining capabilities used for rocket components to ensure product safety and quality.

3. Can I personalize my sweets cutter during the experience?
Absolutely! You can personalize your sweets cutter by using alphabet and numeric stamps to engrave it. Whether you want to add your initials, a name, a special date, or any other inscription, you can create a one-of-a-kind piece during the experience.

4. Are there age restrictions for this tour?
The tour is suitable for participants aged 3 and above. For younger children, we kindly request that they be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Safety is our priority, especially during the foundry tour, so we appreciate your understanding.

5. Can I purchase additional sweets cutters or products made by Kanemori Alloy during the tour?
Yes, you can! We offer the opportunity to purchase additional sweets cutters and other products crafted by Kanemori Alloy. These items make for unique souvenirs or gifts, showcasing the artistry and quality of traditional Japanese craftsmanship. Feel free to explore our selection after the tour to find the perfect keepsake or gift.

Key Takeaways

Rich Heritage: Discover the enduring legacy of Kanemori Alloy, a foundry rooted in tradition since its establishment in 1714. Explore the history and craftsmanship that have been passed down through generations.

Art of Traditional Sand Casting: Gain insight into the fascinating world of traditional sand casting, a time-honored technique that has stood the test of centuries. Witness the intricate process of creating aluminum sweets cutters.

Cultural Symbolism: Learn about the cultural significance of the pheasant, fish, and rabbit designs featured on the sweets cutters. These iconic symbols represent Kanazawa's unique heritage and traditions.

Personalization: Experience the joy of personalization as you engrave your own sweets cutter. Whether it's your initials, a special date, or a meaningful message, you'll craft a bespoke piece that reflects your creativity.

Quality Materials: Appreciate the craftsmanship behind each sweets cutter, made from food-grade aluminum alloy refined at high temperatures. The use of in-house metal refining techniques ensures product safety and durability.

Safety and Age-Friendly: The tour welcomes participants aged 3 and above, making it a family-friendly experience. Parental supervision is recommended for younger children. Safety measures are in place during the tour.

Shopping Opportunities: Explore a range of sweets cutters and other products crafted by Kanemori Alloy. Take home a unique piece of traditional Japanese craftsmanship as a souvenir or gift.

Booking Flexibility: Plan your visit on Fridays, Saturdays, or Mondays, with multiple start times available. If you have specific preferences, contact us to discuss alternative arrangements.

Local Culture and Artistry: Immerse yourself in the local culture of Kanazawa and witness the collaboration between Kanemori Alloy and renowned traditional craftsmen, creating unique and culturally significant products.

Related Read: Hands-On Workshops for Artisanal Souvenirs in Japan