• Visit to Sakai Denshōkan

  • JUNE 2, 2024

  • Yesterday, I visited the "Sakai Hamono Museum CUT," located on the second floor of the Sakai Denshōkan in Sakai City. In this article, I'll share my experience and impressions of the visit.

  • What is Sakai Denshōkan?

  • Sakai Denshōkan is a facility that introduces the traditional industries of Sakai City. In March 2022, it was renamed from the "Sakai Traditional Industry Hall." This facility showcases the rich traditional culture and techniques of Sakai.
  • Sakai Denshōkan
  • Sakai Denshōkan

  • Sakai Hamono Museum CUT

  • On the second floor is the "Sakai Hamono Museum CUT," where various exhibits are displayed. Sakai is a leading producer of cutlery in Japan, and this museum provides insights into its history, manufacturing processes, and the various types of knives used for different purposes.

    I was fortunate to have someone who provided thorough explanations, detailing the differences in materials and how the knives are crafted for different purposes. I am very grateful.
  • Sakai Hamono Museum CUT
  • Sakai Hamono Museum CUT

  • 1. History of Sakai Cutlery

    Sakai cutlery has long been highly regarded. Visitors can learn about its origins and historical development.

  • 2. Manufacturing Process of Cutlery

    Detailed explanations of how cutlery is made are provided, including the forging techniques and blade finishing processes. The exhibits allow visitors to appreciate the craftsmanship involved.

    3. Exhibition of Various Knives for Different Uses

    Sakai cutlery includes a wide variety of knives, each designed for specific uses. The exhibits explain how each type of knife is utilized.
  • 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.

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

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

Blog Author: Toru

-Professional background-
・Graduated from Tokyo Sushi Academy
・Sushi lesson instructor at Tsukiji Tokyo
・Making sushi at RC Show, one of Canada's largest Toronto food shows

Traditional Japanese knives, like those from Sakai City, are globally prized for their sharpness and elegance. Yet, Sakai's dwindling artisans pose a challenge to preserving this craft. To combat this, I'm dedicated to spreading the brilliance of Japanese knives worldwide. My dream is to sustain Sakai's legacy while meeting global demand.

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.