Do You Know? The Hardware Eagle of Miki City.
This time, I introducing the symbol of Miki City, the "Hardware Eagle."
Miki City's Hardware Industry
Miki City is known as a town with over 400 years of history in hardware production. Miki hardware, crafted by skilled blacksmiths using advanced equipment and high-quality materials, enjoys strong support both domestically and internationally. Especially, "Banshu Miki Uchihamono," recognized for its exceptional techniques and craftsmanship handed down since the Edo period, was designated as a national traditional craft in 1996.
The Symbol of the Hardware Eagle
The Hardware Eagle, the emblem of Miki hardware, is known for its overwhelming presence and technical excellence. This gigantic object, standing 3.2 meters tall, weighing approximately 1.5 tons, and with a wingspan of about 5 meters, is constructed from 3,300 pieces of Miki hardware. Its majestic appearance captivates all who see it.
The History of the Hardware Eagle
The origin of the Hardware Eagle dates back to 1933. At that time, Miki Town (now Miki City) was hit by a major flood, and various ideas were solicited to boost the spirits of the townspeople. Among them, the proposal for the Hardware Eagle was adopted, and the first Hardware Eagle was created in 1952 for the Miki Hardware Exhibition.
The Hardware Eagle continued to evolve and was first showcased overseas at the New York National Hardware Show in 1972. In March 2006, it was exhibited at the International Hardware Fair in Cologne, Germany, displaying its grand form in Europe.
Miki Hardware Festival
The "Miki Hardware Festival" began as a four-day hardware exhibition in 1952. Today, it has become a major event in Miki City, attracting approximately 160,000 visitors annually from both inside and outside the city. The festival not only showcases hardware but also features various events, including dance performances by local students, log-sawing competitions, agricultural fairs, and stalls selling B-grade gourmet food, providing entertainment for all attendees.
However, the Hardware Eagle could only be seen during the two-day Miki Hardware Festival. Due to its temporary nature, it could not be displayed for an extended period, and thus was only shown during the event.
Miki Hardware Festival Official Website
Permanent Installation of the Hardware Eagle
To more broadly promote Miki hardware, a permanent Hardware Eagle, a long-held wish of stakeholders, has been installed. The permanent Hardware Eagle is made from approximately 6,000 pieces of Miki hardware, measuring 4.5 meters wide, 4.0 meters deep, 2.4 meters tall, and weighing about 2.5 tons.
Exhibition Location and Details
The permanent Hardware Eagle is located on the first floor of the Michi-no-Eki Miki. Here, its grand form can be enjoyed by many people throughout the year.
- Exhibition Location: Michi-no-Eki Miki, 1st Floor
- Address: 2426 Fukui, Miki City, Hyogo Prefecture
More Information
Assembly Video
You can watch the assembly video of the Hardware Eagle here. Please enjoy this impressive process.
Miki Hardware Commerce and Industry Cooperative Federation
The Miki Hardware Commerce and Industry Cooperative Federation is a collective of hardware manufacturers and wholesalers. For more details, please visit the website.
Miki Hardware Commerce and Industry Cooperative Federation Website
Hardware Exhibition and Sales Center
For those who want to learn more about Miki hardware, please visit the Hardware Exhibition and Sales Center.
Hardware Exhibition and Sales Center
The Future of Miki Hardware
Miki hardware will enrich your DIY life and provide an excellent opportunity to experience the spirit and culture of Japanese craftsmanship. The Hardware Eagle, filled with pride and technology, will welcome you as its symbol.
