Japan developed many centuries ago in small regions as seperate city states that were later unified. Each region has a very destinctive history and sub-culture because of this. Blacksmiths from different regions were relied upon to produce goods for these regions and also for trading with other adjacent provinces that are now called prefectures. Because of this, many provinces have their own unique history of sword and knife making with certain features that each area is known for. Here is a list we put together for these areas that are still hot beds for knife making in the country.