Unforgettable insights and valuable experiences characterized our trip at the beginning of April, when the 25-member delegation of the VDWF – Association of German Tool and Mould Makers set off for Tokyo. Japan impressed us not only with its deep cultural tradition, but also with its modern technology and efficient infrastructure.
During our stay, we were rewarded with fascinating impressions and encounters. We were warmly welcomed by the Japanese industry association JaDMA, which represents the interests of the Japanese tool and die industry. We visited the stamping and forming technology specialist Showa in Yokohama, Makino in Atsugi and Fanuc at the foot of Mount Fuji. In Fuji, the VDWF travel group also met the people in charge at the stamping and forming tool manufacturer Marusun and then had the opportunity to explore the internal tool shop of the model toy manufacturer Tamiya in Shizuoka.
The structure of the tool and mold making industry in Japan is similar to that in Germany in many respects. Interestingly, not only similar economic challenges and approaches were revealed in both countries, but also similarities in the structure of this industry. On our first and last day in Japan, we had the opportunity to discover the vibrant metropolis of Tokyo with its 14 million inhabitants. A week full of moments that immersed us deeply in Japanese industry and culture.
