• Exploring Sakai Denshokan: A Hub of Traditional Craftsmanship

  • JUNE 2, 2024

  • Are you interested in Japanese traditional crafts, particularly the renowned Sakai cutlery? Look no further than Sakai Denshokan, a must-visit destination for enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. In this article, we'll take you on a virtual tour of this remarkable facility and its crown jewel, the Sakai Hamono Museum CUT.

  • What is Sakai Denshōkan?

  • Sakai Denshokan, formerly known as the "Sakai Traditional Industry Hall," is a cultural treasure trove located in Sakai City, Osaka Prefecture. Renamed in March 2022, this facility serves as a gateway to the rich traditional industries of Sakai, with a particular focus on its world-famous cutlery.
  • Sakai Denshōkan
  • Sakai Denshōkan

  • Key Features of Sakai Denshokan:

    1. Free Admission: Sakai Denshokan welcomes visitors at no cost, making it an accessible cultural experience for all.
    2. Comprehensive Exhibits: The facility houses various displays showcasing Sakai's traditional crafts and techniques.
    3. Central Location: Situated in the heart of Sakai City, it's easily accessible for both local and international visitors.

  • Sakai Hamono Museum CUT: The Highlight of Sakai Denshokan

  • On the second floor of Sakai Denshokan, you'll find the Sakai Hamono Museum CUT, a specialized exhibition space dedicated to Sakai's renowned cutlery industry. This museum offers an in-depth look at the history, craftsmanship, and variety of Sakai knives.
  • Sakai Hamono Museum CUT
  • Sakai Hamono Museum CUT

  • What You'll Discover at Sakai Hamono Museum CUT:

    1. Rich History: Learn about the origins and development of Sakai cutlery, a tradition spanning centuries.
    2. Manufacturing Process: Gain insights into the meticulous techniques used to create these world-class knives.
    3. Diverse Knife Collection: Explore a wide array of knives, each designed for specific culinary purposes.
    4. Expert Guidance: Benefit from knowledgeable staff who provide detailed explanations about the exhibits.
  • Sakai Hamono Museum CUT

    The types of knives and their uses are displayed.

  • Sakai Hamono Museum CUT

    Yanagiba
  • Sakai Hamono Museum CUT

    Deba

  • Sakai Hamono Museum CUT

    The knife for cutting bonito
  • Sakai Hamono Museum CUT

    Gyuto

  • Sakai Hamono Museum CUT

    Petty
  • Sakai Hamono Museum CUT

    Usuba

  • Sakai Hamono Museum CUT

    Various types of knives and their uses are clearly displayed using actual items, photos, models, and illustrations.
  • Sakai Hamono Museum CUT

    The first floor is dedicated to the display and sale of knives.

  • Sakai Hamono Museum CUT

    The first floor is dedicated to the display and sale of knives.

  • 4. Impressions of the Visit

  • Sakai Denshōkan offers free admission and is a valuable facility where visitors can experience the traditional industries of Sakai. The exhibits are fascinating, particularly the detailed displays of the manufacturing process, which highlight the high level of craftsmanship. The building itself is also beautiful and worth a visit.
Sakai Hamono Museum CUT

The tuna knife looked just like a Japanese sword. I was impressed by its beauty and size.

Sakai Hamono Museum CUT

I was surprised to learn that the shape of the eel knives varies significantly by region.

  • There are several types of eel knives, each shaped differently according to the regional methods of preparing eels. Primarily, these knives can be divided into three main types, each designed to suit the specific way eels are prepared in that region.

  • First, the "Edo-zaki," used in the Kanto region, features a short handle and a blade with a kiridashi kogatana-like shape, with two sharp edges. This design is specialized for "back splitting." The Osaka-style knife is made with metal extending all the way to the handle's end, and it shares the kiridashi kogatana-like blade shape. On the other hand, the Nagoya-style (or Ise-style) knife has a long, rectangular blade with no heel (the bottom corner of the blade). The rounded corners help avoid damaging the eel during preparation. This unique design evolved in the Tokai region, where Eastern and Western culinary cultures meet, allowing for both "belly splitting" and "back splitting."

  • Additionally, in Kyoto, a cleaver-like knife known as the "Kyoto-style unagi-saki" is commonly used. Its distinctive shape is well-suited to the specific techniques used in Kyoto cuisine.

  • The shapes of these eel knives have evolved to meet the needs of each region's food culture and preparation methods, showcasing the craftsmanship and culinary traditions unique to each area.
Sakai Hamono Museum CUT

One of the knives displayed was by Tadayoshi Yamatsuka which is also available for purchase at KIREAJI.

Tadayoshi Yamatsuka
Sakai Hamono Museum CUT

One of the knives displayed was by Shogo Yamatsuka, which is also available for purchase at KIREAJI.

Shogo Yamatsuka

  • Tips for Visitors:

    1. Allocate Sufficient Time: Plan to spend at least 1-2 hours exploring the exhibits thoroughly.
    2. Visit Both Floors: Don't miss the knife display and sales area on the first floor.
    3. Ask Questions: The staff at Sakai Denshokan are knowledgeable and happy to provide additional information.

  • Conclusion

  • A visit to Sakai Denshokan offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of traditional Japanese craftsmanship. Whether you're a culinary professional, a knife enthusiast, or simply curious about Japanese culture, this facility provides an enriching experience that shouldn't be missed. Plan your visit to Sakai Denshokan today and discover the artistry and history behind Sakai's famous cutlery tradition!

Reference Information

Visiting the Sakai Denshōkan and the Sakai Hamono Museum CUT allowed me to appreciate the depth and charm of Japan's traditional industries. The first floor is a knife display and sales area, while the second floor features exhibits where you can learn about the history of Sakai knives, their manufacturing process, types of knives, and how to use them. I highly recommend visiting if you have the chance. Admission is free.

Sakai Denshōkan
(SAKAI TRADITIONAL CRAFTS MUSEUM)

Address:
1-chōme-1-30 Zaimokuchōnishi, Sakai Ward, Sakai, Osaka 590-0941, Japan
TEL:
+81-72-227-1001

Sakai Denshōkan

KIREAJI's Three Promises to You

  • japanese_knife_made_in_Sakai

    1. High-quality Japanese Knive

    We offer knives crafted by craftsmen from Sakai City.

  • Honbazuke

    2. Genuine Sharpness

    To ensure you experience sharpness, we provide a free Honbazuke by our skilled craftsmen.

  • 3. Lifetime Knife Use

    Every knife comes with a free Saya(Sheath) for durability. We also provide paid after-sales services with Sakai City Japanese knife workshop.