A statement released on Twitter on Saturday

The shops stretch for almost 1 km along the shopping arcade linking Kototoidori Street in the north with Asakusadori Street in the south, showcasing not only kitchenware but also lifelike plastic models of food.Although the arcade is dedicated to the food industry, Kappabashi has in recent years b e popular with amateur cooks and tourists, who throw in a visit because of its close proximity to Asakusa.One of the main draws is the skillfully crafted plastic samples of ramen, sushi, tempura, cakes and other food displayed at restaurant entrances throughout Japan.But many also e to purchase top-notch "hocho" kitchen knives. Some are chefs at Japanese restaurants overseas,beauty scissors but others are merely housewives and husbands with a strong preference for quality cooking utensils and an interest in maintaining them, shop owners said.

The origins of Kappabashi date back to the Taisho Era about 100 years ago, when a small group of shops began selling kitchenware. As other shops followed suit, the merchant munity gradually grew.Despite the 1923 Great Kanto Earthquake and the devastating Tokyo air raids of World War II, Kappabashi never died out.As Japan rebuilt from the war, its food culture diversified, increasing the need for different kinds of kitchenware and handing the industry a big chance. Kappabashi's merchants thrived.Unlike decades ago, many shops here now cater to general consumers. Each autumn, Kappabashi organizes a bargain event that draws as many as 300,000 people from across the nation.As long as Japan's food culture grows, Kappabashi will continue to thrive.Peter Maturi, the kitchenwares retailer, was established in 1880 and had a store at Vicar Lane, Leeds, as well as in Harrogate and Manchester.

A statement released on Twitter on Saturday, March 22, said: "Peter Maturi &professional Knife Sets suppliers Sons has ceased trading. Due to pressures of internet shopping and excessive business rates and rent, the shops are unsustainable."It added: "We would like to thank all our customers for their loyal support throughout the years and apologise for any inconvenience this may cause."Peter Maturi senior was born in Pinzolo, Italy, in 1880.He was one of 25 children and, came to England with four of his other brothers, and set up the Leeds store in 1899, on George Street.