Sanjo

Sanjo spans across 431 square kilometers of land in north-central Niigata Prefecture, between the Shinano River and Ikarashi River waterways.

The area transformed from an agricultural region into a metalworking center when blacksmiths from Edo arrived to teach locals how to forge nails during the 17th century.

The city maintains its reputation for producing metal items, with numerous factories creating high-quality knives, scissors, and traditional Japanese tools for domestic and international markets.

Visitors can reach Sanjo within 2 hours from Tokyo using the Joetsu Shinkansen line, making it accessible for those interested in industrial tourism.

Local metalworking facilities open their doors during the October Factory Festival, allowing guests to observe craftsmen creating precision tools and kitchen implements.

Location: Niigata Prefecture

Inception: April 1, 1889

Website: https://www.city.sanjo.niigata.jp/

Shares border with: Niigata, Kamo, Gosen, Tsubame, Uonuma, Mitsuke, Nagaoka, Aga, Tadami

Website: https://city.sanjo.niigata.jp

GPS coordinates: 37.63678,138.96167

Latest update: May 28, 2025 18:28