CONTENTS

NO.3

Kane-M Industry Co., Ltd. Bringing vivid details to your life. The diverse craftsmanship that resides in a small piece of brass.

”ICHIGEI” In Japan, there has long been a deep respect for the pursuit of mastery in one art. From ancient times, craftsmen have dedicated their lives to perfecting their chosen skills – whether in sword-making, lacquerware, pottery, or textiles. This relentless honing of expertise is equally valued in disciplines like martial arts and the tea ceremony, embodying a cultural ethos that represents Japan’s profound commitment to craftsmanship and artistry. This spirit of dedication was later infused into the “Artisan Factory” which emerged during modern Japan’s period of rapid economic growth. Products born from this philosophy of creativity and originality continue to shape and enrich Japanese lifestyle and culture to this day. The ICHIGEI Program is a cultural curriculum designed to learn the essence of Japanese craftsmanship and artistry, enabling participants to apply this philosophy to their own business and manufacturing practices. The program takes place in local factories in Yao City, Osaka Prefecture, which is famous for its strong manufacturing tradition. Through factory visits and apprenticeships with master craftsmen, participants will gain insight into the Japanese philosophy of “ichigei“– the pursuit of excellence in arts and crafts. This tour will feature a visit to Kane-M Industry Co., Ltd., a manufacturer of metal parts for the fashion industry. They are a team of dedicated professionals specializing in the precise creation of products such as jeans buttons, clothing components, and automotive parts. Renowned for its precision and unique quality, Kane-M is particularly celebrated for its advanced engraving technology, earning its reputation as a leading manufacturer of jeans buttons in Japan. We invite you to explore the world of master craftsmen.

  • Duration

    Half-day (takes about 2 hours)

  • Capacity

    10 people

  • Price

    Number of people​ in the group​ Less than 5 people ¥137,500 (JPY) / 6 people ¥138,000 (JPY) / 7 people ¥140,000 (JPY) / 8 people ¥144,000 (JPY) / 9 people ¥144,000 (JPY) / 10 people ¥145,000 (JPY) *An additional fee of ¥2,200(JPY) per person will be charged for items requiring rivet work, in addition to the tour price. ＊ What is not Included ： English speaking guide, Transportation, Food ​and drink expense

  • Location

    Kane-M Industry Co., Ltd. 1-93 Izumi-cho, Yao City, Osaka Prefecture

  • Access

    Approximately 10 minutes from Kintetsu Yao Station on the Kintetsu Osaka Line by Kintetsu Bus bound for Aramoto, JR Suminodo, or Kayashima (bus stop 6) 1-minute walk from Yao Kita High School bus stop *Participants will meet at the venue and disperse there on the day of the tour.

  • Other

    The basic tour plan takes a half-day, and you will be able to choose one company that you wish to visit, that gives you to experience the spirit of “ichigei” during your limited time in Japan. Also, we are more than happy to arrange your customized tour if you wish to visit more than one company. If you would like to visit more than two companies, please contact us for a customized tour.

  • Sights

    During the tour, you’ll witness the entire production process, from press to processing and inspection, accompanied by the sound of press machines at work. Following this, you’ll dive into the meticulous world of metal button craftsmanship by participating in hands-on activities. These include riveting to enhance the durability and design of jeans, practical exercises to identify product defects, and even customizing your own clothes with riveting techniques.