At KIREAJI, we believe that the moment you receive your Japanese knife is more than just a purchase — it’s the beginning of a long and meaningful relationship with a remarkable tool.

To help you start that journey with confidence, we offer two complimentary services that reflect the care and spirit of Japanese craftsmanship.

1. The First Step in Protecting Your Knife — A Custom Saya (Sheath), Free of Charge

A saya is a wooden sheath that wraps around the blade of your knife.
It may seem like a simple accessory, but in truth, it plays a vital role in protecting your blade, ensuring safety, and preserving the condition of your knife.

Japanese knives are incredibly sharp and delicate — even when not in use, the blade can chip or dull from the slightest touch or impact.
That’s where the saya comes in. It acts as a physical shield, protecting the edge from shock and friction.

A saya also enhances safety, especially when traveling with your knife or storing it in a home with children.
Whether you’re a professional chef or a home cook, a well-fitted saya provides peace of mind.

All of our sheaths are crafted from traditional Japanese magnolia wood, known for its unique qualities:

• Lightweight yet durable
• Moisture-resistant
• Gentle on the blade

Magnolia has long been used in Japan for knife handles and sheaths, thanks to its balance of practicality and tradition. It helps prevent rust and keeps the blade clean, making it a perfect partner for your knife.

A saya is not just an accessory.
It’s a shield of protection, a tool of trust, and most importantly, a way to deepen your connection with your knife.

At KIREAJI, we believe the act of fitting the final edge and sliding the blade into its custom-made saya is a symbolic first step — the moment where your knife truly becomes yours.
It’s not the end of a purchase. It’s the beginning of a journey.

2. Start Using Your Knife Right Away — Free “Honbazuke” Final Sharpening

At KIREAJI, we offer a free Honbazuke service—a final sharpening process—upon request. Please note that this Honbazuke is a practical initial edge, not a pursuit of perfect sharpness. It is provided as a service to help you begin using your knife comfortably.

Japanese knives are typically shipped without final edge sharpening, and there are two important reasons for this:

• To prevent damage to the blade during international shipping
• Because a Japanese knife is a tool meant to be personalized by its user

A Japanese knife is more than just a cutting tool—it is something you grow with over time. By adjusting the sharpness to your own preferences and purpose, you can transform it into a truly one-of-a-kind knife. This spirit of customizationis a hallmark of Japanese knife culture.

However, we understand that many customers prefer to use their knife right away. That’s why KIREAJI now offers free Honbazuke sharpening upon request. This gives your knife a usable, well-balanced edge from the start.

Each Honbazuke sharpening is carefully performed by hand by a dedicated specialist from the Shiroyama Knife Workshop. While this is not a traditional artisan-level finish, it provides a reliable and practical starting point for everyday use.

Ultimately, we encourage you to refine and adjust the edge yourself over time to achieve your ideal sharpness.

A Japanese knife is something you nurture through use.

Enjoy the process of creating your very own knife—one that reflects your style and grows with you.

In Summary — It’s Not Just a Knife. It’s a Relationship.

Our free services aren’t just extras — they’re our way of saying:
“We want this knife to be with you for a lifetime.”

• The saya protects the blade and ensures your safety — while deepening your bond with the knife.
• The honbazuke sharpening provides a smooth start to your culinary journey.

From the moment you open the box, your knife is ready to grow with you.
And at KIREAJI, we’re honored to be a part of that story.