Absorbed in producing custom knives while continuing his primary business, he then had the idea of producing a forged Japanese-style knife. Saji notes, "Fortunately, I was able to directly apply hatchet techniques to knives. The large knives used as work tools in wooded mountainous areas can be made using the same techniques as for making hatchets." With their sharp bite and highly original designs, the knives made by Saji using the old Japanese techniques have become very popular. He has already produced more than 300 types. Hunting knives in particular can take a variety of shapes according to their use. Therefore, the number of types of knife Saji can create naturally grows. A craftsman who has successfully applied traditional techniques to a new field, Saji proclaims, "I place the highest priority on forging. You could say this is my passion." The techniques and spirit of the artisan, handed down from his grandfather's generation, will not disappear. Saji Blade Manufacturing0778-24-1651 * Holders of traditional skills recognized by the Association for the Promotion of Traditional Craft Industries, with the support of the national and local governments and private sector (4,657 holders in 2003) Takefu: An Artisan's Town In the Yamato era, Takefu was the provincial capital of the Echizen region and its economic and cultural center. Situated on the Hokurikudo highway, the town was an important diplomatic base, and because many people from different places came through, the town developed many highly skilled trades. Echizen hammered blades are said to have been developed by local swordsmiths who learned advanced techniques from swordsmiths from Kyoto. Takefu paulownia wood chests and Takefu karaki fine cabinetry are among the traditional crafts practiced here.