Yamacyu Ice Pickel
2 products
Inspired by mountaineering gear: Ice picks crafted by artisans of Tsubame.
"Yamachu," the renowned brand of ice picks, is synonymous with excellence in the craft. Based in Tsubame City, Niigata Prefecture—Japan's famed hub for metalwork—Yamachu is the only company in the area specializing in ice pick production. Their unique designs and exceptional polishing techniques have earned acclaim from bartenders both in Japan and abroad. At the heart of this craft is Kazutoshi Yamamoto, a seasoned artisan with 50 years of hands-on experience. Among the many ice picks he has created, his signature product, the "Ice Pickel," stands out as a long-selling item inspired by mountaineering gear designed for snowy peaks.
From iron to stainless steel: Striving for stronger, more rust-resistant products.
Known as "Yamachu," the esteemed ice pick brand Yamachu is a symbol of craftsmanship. Based in Tsubame City, Niigata Prefecture—a city renowned for its world-class metalworking—Yamachu is the only local manufacturer specializing in ice picks. With its unique designs and exceptional polishing techniques, the brand has earned widespread acclaim from bartenders in Japan and abroad. At the heart of this craftsmanship is Kazutoshi Yamamoto, a self-made artisan with 50 years of experience. Among his many creations, the "Ice Pickel," a long-selling product inspired by mountaineering gear used in snowy peaks, exemplifies his dedication to quality and innovation.
The Ice Pickel, which takes a month to complete, is entirely handcrafted by artisans.
To produce the Ice Pickel, Mr. Yamamoto collaborated with forging and laminated wood specialists. The head and spike are forged using custom molds and designed with a screw mechanism for secure attachment and easy replacement. The grip is made of durable pakkawood—thin sheets of beech compressed under high heat and pressure—ensuring resistance to corrosion. After shaping, the head undergoes a meticulous seven-step polishing process, while the spike requires five steps to achieve a perfect finish. It takes approximately one month to assemble all parts and complete a single Ice Pickel. Each piece is a testament to the precision and craftsmanship of Mr. Yamamoto and his team of artisans.
Ice Pick Artisan: Kazutoshi Yamamoto
In 1949, Kazutoshi Yamamoto began his journey in stainless steel metalworking at Yamamoto Manufacturing, a company founded by his father. During the 1960s, the factory expanded, but the economic downturn forced its closure. Undeterred, Yamamoto rebranded under the name Yamachu and launched the original Ice Pickel. The product became a long-standing bestseller, with annual sales reaching 6,000 units and maintaining its popularity to this day. Together with his wife, Yamamoto also produces other items such as stirrers, cutlery, and letter openers, continuing their legacy of craftsmanship.
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