• 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 Traditional Craftsman Collection: Sakai Genpakuho

Coming soon

KIREAJI's Three Promises to You

  • japanese_knife_made_in_Sakai

    1. Forged in the Legacy of Sakai

    From Sakai City—Japan’s renowned birthplace of professional kitchen knives—each blade is crafted by master artisans with over six centuries of tradition. Perfectly balanced, enduringly sharp, and exquisitely finished, every cut carries the soul of true craftsmanship.

  • 2. Thoughtful Care for Everyday Use

    Every knife includes a hand-fitted magnolia saya for safe storage. Upon request, we offer a complimentary Honbazuke final hand sharpening—giving you a precise, ready-to-use edge from day one.

  • 3. A Partnership for a Lifetime

    A KIREAJI knife is more than a tool—it is a lifelong companion. With our bespoke paid aftercare services, we preserve its edge and beauty, ensuring it remains as precise and dependable as the day it first met your hand.

Why Many Product Photos Show Only the Blade

At KIREAJI, every knife is made to order in Sakai, Japan. Photos show the blade before the handle is attached, allowing artisans to perfect the balance and edge for your specific order. Your knife arrives fully finished — tailored just for you.

Made-to-order Japanese knives

Global Delivery from Sakai

Across the world, discerning cooks seek authentic Japanese knives from Sakai — Japan’s legendary knife-making city with over 600 years of tradition.
At KIREAJI, we work alongside master artisans in Sakai to fulfill that desire, shipping genuine handcrafted knives directly from the workshop to kitchens worldwide.

Global Delivery from Sakai

What Is a Traditional Craftsman?

Ever wondered what it takes to be officially recognized by the Japanese government as a “Traditional Craftsman”?
In Sakai City — Japan’s most celebrated hub of knife-making — only a select few artisans earn this prestigious title.

What Is a Traditional Craftsman?

Why do 98% of Japanese Chefs Use Knives from Sakai?

The secret lies in Sakai’sdivision of labor and fully handcrafted process.
This feature explores thetradition and artisan culturebehind Japan’s most trusted knives.

Why do 98% of Japanese Chefs Use Knives from Sakai?

The 98% Statistic: A Trusted Source

The Sakai Tourism Bureau states that "98% of Japanese chefs use Sakai knives" in their articleAppeal of World Renowned Sakai Knives. This claim underscores the enduring reputation of Sakai craftsmanship.

Sakai City Official English Site

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