#Japan #community #Sanjo City #Craft Culture

Discover the Allure of Sanjo City

Sanjo City, located in Niigata Prefecture, is a hidden gem that is just 90 minutes by bullet train from Tokyo. This city, home to approximately 90,000 residents, is renowned for its vibrant metalworking and crafting industries, particularly known for its knives and tools. The city proudly embraces its manufacturing roots, which play a crucial role in its identity and cultural landscape.

A special online event is being held to highlight the beauty of this crafting town, featuring local heroes who have relocated to Sanjo City as part of a community revitalization initiative. The event, organized by Shibire Inc., encourages participants to discover Sanjo's unique charm through engaging narratives from both new and long-standing residents.

The Crafting Culture of Sanjo City

Every October, Sanjo City hosts the 'Tsubame-Sanjo Factory Festival', where local factories open their doors to the public, showcasing the craftsmanship and innovation that define this area. The saying “if you throw a stone, you’ll hit a CEO” reflects the entrepreneurial spirit prevalent here, with a multitude of business leaders actively contributing to the city's growth. The community is not just home to artisans; it is also a hub for individuals launching new ventures and community initiatives that aim to make the area even more vibrant.

Meet the Event Navigator

The event will be guided by Hitomi Inagaki, a member of the community revitalization team based in Sanjo City. Originally from Joetsu City, Inagaki moved to Sanjo in 2025 and has rapidly engaged with the local community, hosting events monthly in Tokyo to share Sanjo's charms and leading local tours.

Personal Reflection

Inagaki shares, “Before I moved, Sanjo was on my list of ‘interesting places,’ and it has transformed from that onto the list of places I call home. The more I explore, the more captivating this city becomes.” She looks forward to introducing the beloved people, culture, and innovations she has discovered throughout her first year.

Event Schedule

• - 8:00 PM: Opening
• - 8:10 PM: Introduction to Sanjo City's charm, lifestyle, crafting culture, and spirit of challenge
• - 8:30 PM: Overview of the upcoming 'Tsubame-Sanjo Factory Festival 2026' with information on tours
• - 8:45 PM: Q&A Session
• - 8:55 PM: Closing Remarks
• - 9:00 PM: Event Conclusion

Who Should Attend?

This online event is ideal for anyone curious about Sanjo City or with an interest in crafting culture. It’s also suited for individuals exploring local living and challenges, or those eager to uncover the hidden allure of unfamiliar regions. Whether you know Sanjo City or want to learn more, come and peek into this intriguing town.

Event Details

• - Date: September 18, 2026 (Friday)
• - Time: 8:00 PM - 9:00 PM
• - Cost: Free
• - Location: Zoom (Link will be sent upon registration)

Don’t miss this chance to connect and engage with the vibrant community of Sanjo City!

For those wanting to know more about living in Sanjo, visit sanjodekurasu.jp.

To receive updates on upcoming events in Tokyo, check this link.