Banshu Hamono is a brand of blades, scissors and knives that are produced in the Banshu region in Hyogo prefecture, the oldest region where the blacksmith industry began in Japan. The industry has grown overtime along with the country’s industrial development, and has produced a variety of items to meet the demand. The region is also known for the oldest region where household items were commercialized, dating back to the Edo era in the 18th century. A wide range of scissors is one of the features of Banshu Hamono that is unique to the region.
 
The blacksmith industry in the Banshu region, which was back then known as Harima, was said to have started as early as in the sixteenth century. By 1532, a type of steel called Chigusa-hagane was developed in the region, which indicates that the region was already home to a bustling blacksmith industry. Chigusa-hagane later became tama-hagane, a type of steel that is famously known for being used to make a katana, or Japanese sword. The technic of making hagane (steel that is used for blades) had spread from the Banshu region to the other parts of Japan. Some of those other regions are still known for making blades today.
 
Each piece of Banshu Hamono is meticulously handmade by skilled craftsmen. By sharpening regularly, it can be used for a long time.


BASHU HAMONO WEB SITE

If you would like to order this product, please contact us by email.
 
Mrs. Misato Kobayashi / MUJUN
E-mail:  ono@mujun.co.jp