• Sakai Genpakuho :
    The legendary sharpener, the best in Japan

  • Sakai Genpakuho was a legendary craftsman known as Japan's finest knife sharpener. His unparalleled skills created knives that were highly valued by top chefs worldwide.

  • The Unique Masterpieces by Sakai Genpakuho

    Sakai Genpakuho's knives stand out for their exceptional craftsmanship, making them truly unique. Particularly, knives from the Shiroyama Knife Workshop are special because they are the only ones with both mirrored sides polished by Sakai Genpakuho. This rare technique is exclusive to these knives, elevating their value and prestige.

  • Why There Will Be No New Knives

    Unfortunately, Sakai Genpakuho passed away in 2019, meaning no new knives crafted by his hand will ever be made. The knives he left behind are now limited in number, and their value continues to rise as they represent the last of his masterful works.

  • A Deep Connection with Genkai Masakuni

    Sakai Genpakuho was closely tied to the famous Genkai Masakuni knives, handling their sharpening and polishing. His contribution to the success of the Genkai Masakuni line is immeasurable, as his sharpening was instrumental in creating these renowned blades.

  • The knives crafted and sharpened by Sakai Genpakuho are more than just tools; they are a testament to the pinnacle of craftsmanship. These works will forever be revered as masterpieces in the world of Japanese knives.

Sakai Genpakuho

The legendary sharpener, the best in Japan

Sakai Genpakuho was renowned as Japan's top knife sharpener, and his work was highly valued by elite chefs. The knives from the Shiroyama Knife Workshop, especially those with both mirrored sides polished by him, are incredibly rare and hold immense value.

Sadly, Sakai Genpakuho passed away in 2019, and no new knives will ever be made by his hand. However, the knives he crafted will continue to shine as timeless masterpieces in the world of Japanese blades.

Sakai City Traditional Craftsmen Collection: Sakai Genpakuho

Coming soon

KIREAJI's Three Promises to You

  • 1. Exceptional Japanese Knives

    Our knives, crafted by Sakai City's master artisans, combine traditional techniques with carefully selected materials, delivering unrivaled sharpness and durability.

  • Honbazuke

    2. Genuine Sharpness

    We offer free Honbazuke sharpening performed by skilled craftsmen, ensuring that you experience the authentic sharpness of a true Sakai knife.

  • 3. Lifetime Knife Use

    Each knife comes with a free Saya (protective sheath) for added durability. We also offer after-sales service through a trusted Sakai City workshop to maintain your knife's performance.
Traditional Craftsmen

Traditional Craftsmen of Sakai Uchihamono

600 years of history and craftsmanship

Traditional craftsmen are artisans who have mastered the craft of Sakai blades through years of dedicated apprenticeship. They are nationally recognized elite craftsmen tasked with preserving Japan's traditional crafts for contemporary times. To earn the title of traditional craftsman, they must undergo a rigorous examination process after at least 12 years of apprenticeship. Due to the stringent requirements, traditional craftsmen are exceptionally rare, with only 29 individuals holding this esteemed title in Sakai City.(As of May 2024)

Sakai City’s Traditional Craftsmen
Japanese_chef

Did You Know? The Secrets Behind Sakai Knives Chosen by 98% of Chefs in Japan

Explore the specialized craftsmanship and historical significance that make Sakai knives a favorite in Japan's renowned cutlery industry.

Do you know why Sakai knives are favored by many professional chefs?
Sakai_s_Declining_Japanese_Knife_Craftsmen

Sakai's Declining Japanese Knife Craftsmen

Sakai's esteemed cutlery tradition, renowned for its sharpness and craftsmanship, is at risk with only a dozen blacksmiths remaining. Facing competition and declining interest, strategies such as exploring new markets and fostering youth interest are vital for survival. This situation underscores a broader challenge in cultural preservation. Supporting Sakai’s craftsmen is crucial to maintaining this legacy.

Sakai's Declining Japanese Knife Craftsmen