Chefs Using KIREAJI Knife : Kenshiro Azuma

  • KIREAJI knives are more than just tools—they are an extension of a chef’s senses, helping to bring out the true voice of the ingredients.
    Here, we introduce Kenshiro Azuma, a chef who embraces tradition and innovation, relying on KIREAJI knives to craft his exquisite sushi.

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  • Kenshiro Azuma

  • Profile

    Azuma began his culinary journey at age 18, training at long-established Edomae sushi restaurants and traditional Japanese eateries in Tokyo.
    By his early twenties, he was appointed manager and spent the next eleven years serving as head chef and executive chef. Later, he became the chief instructor at Tokyo Sushi Academy, Japan’s largest sushi school, where he trained over 2,000 sushi chefs.

    With international experience launching restaurants in Guangzhou and Hong Kong, Azuma brings a global perspective to his craft.
    In 2020, he opened Sushi Omakase Tsukiji in Tokyo, offering an omakase style that masterfully blends traditional techniques with modern methods.

  • Features of “Sushi Omakase Tsukiji”

    • Evolved Edomae sushi incorporating techniques like aging and low-temperature cooking
    • Fully customizable omakase courses that change with the seasons, fresh ingredients, and guest preferences
    • Exceptional quality rivaling Ginza’s top sushi establishments — offered at surprisingly affordable prices
    • Diverse activities including online salons, hands-on workshops, and catering services
    TSUKIJI SUSHI OMAKASE 

  • Why Choose KIREAJI Knives?

    “For a sushi chef, a knife is an organ of touch that enables true dialogue with the fish,” Azuma explains. His reasons for choosing KIREAJI knives include:

    • Incredibly smooth cutting performance that preserves the fish’s natural fat and umami
    • Lightweight, perfectly balanced design that reduces fatigue and supports delicate precision
    • Beautiful cuts that enhance the visual appeal of each piece of sushi

    “KIREAJI responds faithfully to a chef’s every nuance — it is a trusted partner in my work,” he says.

  • Honoring Tradition While Forging the Future

    Kenshiro Azuma’s sushi embodies the philosophy of respecting tradition while creating new value.
    In his hands, you will always find a sharp, beautiful, and reliable KIREAJI knife.

    “Skill alone can never surpass the person wielding the tool. That’s why the quality of your knives matters,” Azuma states.
    His craftsmanship and philosophy continue to inspire chefs worldwide.

The Origin of Craftsmanship

  • The Love for Cooking Reflected in Choosing the Perfect Knife

    Choosing a knife is not just about selecting a tool. It’s a moment when you find one that fits perfectly in your hand and feels like an extension of yourself. The love for cooking is not only shown in the ingredients but also in the tools you use, especially your knife. The weight of the knife, its sharpness, and the way it feels when you hold it—each of these details deepens your passion for cooking and empowers you to create even more delicious dishes.

  • The knives we craft are all made by hand. The care and effort poured into each piece are transmitted to the person who uses it, breathing life into every dish. Finding the perfect knife for you is the first step into truly embracing the world of cooking. And with each use, your love for cooking will grow deeper.

  • Choosing the right knife enriches the entire process of cooking, turning it into something even more meaningful.
Sakai Traditional Craftsmen Collection

KIREAJI's Three Promises to You

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    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.

  • 2. For a Lifetime of Use

    At KIREAJI, we see knives as lifelong companions. Each knife comes with a free saya, and we offer Honbazuke hand-sharpening by Shiroyama Knife Workshop in Sakai City.

  • 3. Supporting the Joy of Continued Use

    KIREAJI knives are made to grow with you. That’s why we provide trusted after-sales care (fee-based) .