• Gyokusendo's photo

Gyokusendo

Tsubame


Tsubame’s metalwork techniques stand out among competitors in the world

Although Niigata is strongly associated with agriculture, did you know that a particular product in use around the world is created using the traditional techniques of Tsubame? That product is the iPod. When the metal processing technology cultivated since the Edo period was approved by Apple, the city set to work on a mirror finish for the entire iPod product range. Tsubame metalwork includes a wide range of cutlery, such as knives and spoons, as well as auto parts and various blades. Common features are meticulous attention to detail and reliable performance. Tsubame metalwork continues to enjoy recognition and patronage from around the world.

  • Gyokusendo's photo
  • Gyokusendo's photo
  • Gyokusendo's photo
  • Gyokusendo's photo
  • Gyokusendo's photo
  • Gyokusendo's photo

200 years of history produces copperware with special warmth

Founded in Tsubame in 1816, Gyokusendo is also a world-class brand. Its renowned champagne cooler was designed with beautiful curves in collaboration with Krug, known as “the king of champagnes” and a member of the Louis Vuitton group. Despite being metal, it has a softness to the touch and a familiar warmth, evidence of the artisan’s meticulous skills. All Gyokusendo products are known as tsuiki copperware and are produced using a unique technology.

  • Gyokusendo's photo
  • Gyokusendo's photo
  • Gyokusendo's photo
  • Gyokusendo's photo

The work of artisans shows us tradition strongly rooted in the land.

Tsuiki copperware is produced by striking a copper plate with metal hammers – a process that produces a variety of shapes. For example, various metal hammers might be used to make a single tea pot. These techniques, handed down for seven generations, have been certified as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Niigata Prefecture. The sixth generation craftsman is also a living national treasure. Viewing tours of the Tsubame factories are also available – a rare privilege in the strict world of these artisans. Amid the ceaseless ringing of hammers, visitors to the factory catch a glimpse of artisans performing serious work and thus encounter the essence of Japanese traditional manufacturing.

  • Gyokusendo's photo
  • Gyokusendo's photo
  • Gyokusendo's photo
  • Gyokusendo's photo
  • Gyokusendo's photo
  • Gyokusendo's photo
  • Gyokusendo's photo

For reference

  • Address
    2-2-21 Chuodori, Tsubame-shi, Niigata-ken
  • Telephone
    0256-62-2015
  • Opening hours
    8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
  • Regular days of closure
    Sundays and public holidays
  • Website

Access

Approx. 1 hour and 5 minutes from Narita Airport to Niigata Airport
Approx. 55 minutes from Chubu International Airport to Niigata Airport
Approx. 1 hour and 10 minutes from Itami Airport to Niigata Airport
Approx. 1 hour and a half from Fukuoka Airport to Niigata Airport
Approx. 3 hours from Naha Airport to Niigata Airport
JR Niigata Station is 25 minutes by shuttle bus from Niigata Airport.
  • JR Tsubame-Sanjo Station is 12 minutes by Joetsu Shinkansen from JR Niigata Station.
  • Gyokusendo is 5 minutes by car from JR Tsubame-Sanjo Station

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