Ono City

Ono City (小野市, Hyogo Prefecture)

Quick look

  • Country: Japan
  • Heritage: 250+ years of blade manufacturing
  • Production model: Integrated single-workshop process (one craftsperson handles all stages)
  • Scale: Artisan-level production, much smaller output than Seki
  • Known for: Innovation in bearing technology and blade design

Why it matters

While Seki gets most of the attention, Ono City in Hyogo Prefecture carries its own respected tradition in blade work going back over 250 years. The key difference from Seki is the production model. Where Seki uses a division of labour system with specialist workshops handling individual stages, Ono City manufacturers tend to keep the entire process under one roof. One craftsperson or a small team handles everything from forging to final sharpening.

This integrated approach means fewer hands touch each scissors, which some professionals believe results in more consistent quality and a more unified feel in the finished product.

Notable manufacturers

Mork Scissors (モルクシザーズ) is the standout name from Ono City. They won the 50th Hyogo Prefecture Technical Merit Award for their work. Mork developed a contactless double-bearing system and an original “propeller blade” design that prevents hair from escaping during cutting. Their scissors are fully handmade with integrated production.

An interesting detail: Mork scissors are available through Japan’s Furusato Nozei (ふるさと納税) hometown tax system, meaning Japanese citizens can receive them as a regional gift in exchange for tax contributions to Ono City.

Banshu tradition

The broader Banshu (播州) region, which includes Ono City, has a documented history of blade and hardware manufacturing. The region’s metalworking skills developed alongside agricultural tool production and gradually expanded into specialized cutting instruments including scissors, razors, and surgical tools.

See also: Seki City Solingen Tension Systems

Related guide: Manufacturing: Ono City & Sakai

Sources

  1. Mork Scissors manufacturer information (mork.co.jp)
  2. Hyogo Prefecture industrial heritage documentation
  3. Furusato Nozei regional product listings

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