[Iyo-meito] Natural Whetstone Tangawa Village Yamasan Small Akahoshi #20 / 1,309g 80 x 219 x 34mm #15020

The natural whetstones from Iyokuni Province are said to have circulated in the Seto Inland Sea as early as the Kofun period, and are renowned as the leading producers of whetstone industries within the world’s oldest and largest igneous rock systems, with a history exceeding 1,500 years.

Our nation’s whetstone resources possessed the power to change ethnicities and even nations. The fact that we were latecomers due to a lack of iron ore and a unique tatara steelmaking process that yielded significantly lower yields, as well as being located on remote islands in the Far East, was a fatal condition akin to losing limbs in creating an ironware civilization. However, the consumable goods that allow for the free processing of harder and more resilient iron products are, without a doubt, our nation’s whetstone resources, as confirmed by history and tradition. Until the 19th century, the performance of natural whetstones dominated ironware development.

■ Regarding construction, despite having a poor location, it simultaneously possesses some of the world’s oldest and largest wooden structures.

■ The Japanese sword, a masterpiece of unparalleled skill in ironware. A world where samurai risked their lives for a single blade continued for 700 years.

■ Despite being a latecomer on the periphery, it achieved the invention of world-leading iron products as early as the Middle Ages, and is now known as a manufacturing nation.

The Iron Age, which lasted from prehistoric times until the mid-Heian period. In other words, the power to produce iron was the very driving force behind manufacturing, culture, and the maturation of the nation. Unique and truthful whetstone resources, overflowing with authenticity, have overcome countless adversities related to iron. If we were to assess our nation’s various resources based on the values of the modern era, which do not recognize the value of oil or nuclear power, we could call ourselves a resource-rich nation. The strength gained through overcoming scarcity and hardship illuminates the depth and soul of our history and tradition.

・80 x 219 x 34 mm, 1,309g. Unlike acidic igneous rocks produced in highlands such as the former Hirota Village of Tobe Town, this stone is neutral, resists rusting, and is easy to use. It is firm, sticky, and falls into the category of fine-grained whetstones. ・In addition to operational costs related to mining, a portion of the proceeds from sales of items bearing the Tangawa Toshiyama Combination stamp will be reinvested into the combination. By using it daily, you will directly convey your support to Tangawa, which possesses the true Iyomigoto Toshiyama. It is neutral, unlike the acidic stones common outside the former Tobe Town, and is resistant to rust with proper management. It is hand-mined and hand-split, carefully selected and honed on a grinding surface to read the grain of the stone. It is ideal for use with high-speed steel and for switching between scratch patterns and sectional shapes. Therefore, while a slate whetstone is not essential, it becomes problematic without a scratch switching mechanism. For this reason, it is best to obtain your Iyotogi from the rust-resistant, neutral Iyotogi. The “Iyomigoto” designation since around 2007 applies only to the sazare migoto (pebble whetstones). We are unable to respond to inquiries regarding “Iyomigoto” products selected and manufactured by other parties. ・Coarse-grained altered rhyolite and andesite from Iyo City, Ehime Prefecture, Japan. #1,000~5,000 grit. Slightly hard and fine-grained. The highest ratio of hardness to resilience. Neutral and resistant to rust, unlike other Iyotogi mountains. Recovering grinding ability by raising the grit with diamond #400 or lower. Recommended by Kyomeikura. Due to the continuous circular scratches, it achieves approximately 70% edge retention and is less likely to produce a mirror finish comparable to artificial whetstones, making it easier to reveal weld lines, material differences, and contrasts due to carbon content. ・The stone tends to be harder and more refined, like black rock juice. Hardness reduces self-sharpening, so proceed with Kyomeikura polishing as needed, depending on the purpose and skill level.

【Voltage Compatibility】 When using electrical appliances, please note that they are designed for Japanese voltage specifications (90-110V), so if you use them with a different voltage, it may cause a malfunction.

【Plug Type】 Our products use Japanese plug types (A or B type). Please use a conversion adapter if necessary.

【Important Note on Transformers and Adapters】 A transformer adjusts voltage to match your device's requirements. A conversion adapter only changes the plug shape and does not adjust voltage. Using only a conversion adapter without a transformer may result in damage to the product.

【Liability】 We are not responsible for malfunctions or damages caused by improper use, such as operating the product without a transformer.