Experience the Sound Gem “Sanukite” in Sakaide, the Town Where Sound is Born
INDEX
What is Sanukite?
“Sanukite,” a black stone formed approximately 15 million years ago.
This stone, found in Kagawa including Sakaide, was used as knife-like tools in the past due to its sharp fracturing properties.
It has a history of being utilized as a tool since the Paleolithic era, and its beautiful sound is also characteristic.
In Sakaide, it is affectionately called “Kankan-ishi” (clinking stone) and has been enjoyed in various forms from ancient times to the present.
How is Sanukite obtained?
Sanukite is a rock formed by volcanic activity and can be found in mountainous areas throughout Kagawa Prefecture.
Particularly at quarries, it is carefully excavated by craftsmen and processed into musical instruments and craft items.
Some are found in naturally fractured states and are used as sound-making items without further processing.
It truly is a “sound gem” nurtured by the Earth.
By the way, how did it get its name?
This black and beautiful stone was named by German geologist Heinrich Edmund Naumann. While surveying Japan’s geology during the Meiji era, he named it “Sanukite” after its place of origin, “Sanuki.”
There is also a theory that another German geologist, Weinschenk, was involved.
However, Naumann is famous as the one who named this stone.
There’s a sense of romance in the origins of this “sound stone” born from the land of Sanuki.
Experience Sanukite
To fully enjoy the charm of Sanukite, it’s recommended to actually touch it and listen to its sound!
●Take home your own sound
We periodically hold workshops where you can create your own Sanukite items such as wind chimes and wreaths.
●Enjoy concerts by professional performers
Yuko Funasako (Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra, Percussionist)
Percussionist with the Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra since 2007. As an orchestra performer, she has collaborated with numerous artists across genres beyond classical music, including Ryuichi Sakamoto, Koji Tamaki, and YOSHIKI, and has frequently appeared in media such as NHK’s “Kohaku Uta Gassen,” “Classic TV,” and TV Asahi’s “Untitled Concert.” In 2021, she met Mieko Hirai of KLANG KLANG and began performing with Sanukite. In 2023, she performed at the “Sakaide Salt Festival” and held “Sanukite Night” at Sanpachi Restaurant in Tokyo.
For details, pleasesee here.
Concerts by professional musicians who have mastered the sound of Sanukite are also held.
It’s a precious opportunity to thoroughly enjoy the beautiful, transparent resonance.
In fact, the sound of Sanukite was heard at the opening ceremony of the 2000 Sydney Olympics.
世界の舞台で認められた、その特別な音をぜひ体感してみてください。
●Incorporate it into your lifestyle
Interior goods made with Sanukite are also popular.
There are many items that allow you to enjoy “sound art” in your daily life, such as simple and modern design objects and wind chimes that produce enjoyable sounds.
They have become a presence that calms the busy modern mind.
Where to get Sanukite
There are many items to incorporate Sanukite into your daily life, such as stylish interior decorations and sound-making keychains.
 |
 |
 |
[Stores in Kagawa Prefecture]
Sanukite goods are also available at stores within Kagawa Prefecture.
Since you can get them locally, please visit a store near you. Details can be found on the map below.
Sakaide, a journey guided by sound. Why not discover a different way to enjoy your travels while experiencing the clear resonance of Sanukite?
