hi-uchi-gane

Updated: May 21, 2025

These consist of the hi-uchi-ishi, or 'fire-strike-stone'; the hi-uchi-gane, or steel; the hokuchi, or tinder, made of dried moss; and the tsukegi, fine slivers of resinous pine. A little tinder is laid upon the flint and set smouldering with a few strokes of the steel, and blown upon until it flames.

Lafcadio Hearn - Glimpses of Unfamiliar Japan : Second Series