Kyo Hamono (cutlery) Unlike the cutlery shapes of the Kanto region, Kyoto's cutlery has a distinct style called Kyo gata (Kyoto shape). The history of this craft is said to have started when skilled metal workers from Nara moved to what was then the new capital of Kyoto. Kyoto, being blessed with the natural resources such as clay from the Fushimi area for the mold, whetstone from Narutaki, charcoals made of pine from Tanba, iron sand from San'in, and clear and clean water, became the center of this craft in all Japan. Hamono also developed as an important utensil used in flower arrangement, Japanese cuisine and other arts and crafts that prospered in Kyoto. Presently, such pieces as knives for Kyoto cuisine and for making tatami, textile scissors, and sculpting utensils are made. Kyo hammono also play an important role as an invaluable tool for the traditional arts and crafts such as Nishijin textiles, Kyoyaki ceramics, and Kiyomizu style ceramics. BACK