• Mirror Polished

  • These knives, meticulously finished by highly skilled craftsmen, boast a beautiful mirror polish. Reflecting years of tradition and expertise, these mirror-finished Japanese knives epitomize the craftsmanship of Sakai artisans. We respect this tradition and craftsmanship and strive to offer our customers the opportunity to experience their excellence firsthand.

  • What is Mirror Polished?

  • Mirror polishing is a technique used to polish a knife's surface to a smooth, reflective finish, similar to a mirror. Originally inspired by Japanese swords, mirror-polished blades are not only visually striking but also offer practical advantages. This technique is often applied to high-end kitchen knives, enhancing both their performance and aesthetics.

  • Corrosion Resistance

    One of the major benefits of mirror polishing is its improved rust resistance. The ultra-smooth surface created by mirror polishing makes it difficult for moisture and dirt to adhere to the blade. This prevents water from lingering on the surface, reducing the chances of oxidation and rust formation. For high-carbon steel knives, which are more susceptible to rust than stainless steel, this feature is particularly valuable.

  • Aesthetic Appeal and Professional Prestige

    Mirror-polished knives are not only functional but also aesthetically stunning, exuding a sense of luxury and craftsmanship. For professional chefs, especially those working in high-end sushi or fine dining establishments, the appearance of the tools they use can greatly impact the dining experience. A chef using a beautifully polished knife signals attention to detail and dedication to quality, which enhances the customer's perception of the meal.

  • Easier Maintenance and Cleanliness

    The smooth, mirror-polished surface not only reduces rust formation but also makes the knife easier to clean and maintain. Less dirt and food particles cling to the blade, meaning it stays cleaner for longer and requires less effort to wipe down. This is particularly useful in environments where raw foods like fish and meat are frequently handled, as hygiene is a top priority.

  • Reduced Food Damage

    Because a mirror-polished blade has such a smooth surface, it causes less damage to the food it cuts. Rough surfaces on a blade can degrade the quality of delicate ingredients, such as fish, by tearing or bruising them during the cutting process. A mirror-polished knife helps maintain the integrity of the ingredients, preserving their taste, texture, and overall quality.

  • The Value of Mirror Polishing

  • In conclusion, mirror polishing offers multiple benefits beyond just visual appeal. It improves cutting performance by reducing friction, enhances the knife's resistance to rust, and makes maintenance easier. For professionals, the aesthetic value of a mirror-polished knife can also elevate the dining experience and reflect the chef's commitment to quality. Whether for personal satisfaction or professional use, a mirror-polished knife represents the perfect balance of art and functionality.

Mirror Polished Japanese Knife Collection

Mirror Polished by Traditional Craftsmen

In the Super Steel (Honyaki) collection, each knife is hand polished by Sakai City's foremost craftsman, Tadayoshi Yamatsuka.

Tadayoshi Yamatsuka
Super-Steel-Honyaki-Yanagiba-Japanese-sword-shaped-270mm-Mirror-Polished-both-sides

Mirror Polished (Both Sides)

The "Mirror Polished (both sides)" collection showcases Japanese knives from Sakai with a dual-sided mirror finish, designed for exceptional sharpness and visual appeal, making them highly suitable for professional chefs.

Mirror Polished (Both sides)
Blue_Steel_2_Yanagiba_270mm-Mirror_Polished_one_side

Mirror Polished (One Side)

The "Mirror Polished (one side)" collection showcases Japanese knives with a single-sided mirror finish, tailored for professional chefs. Each knife is crafted in Sakai, known for its quality.

Mirror Polished (One side)

Mirror Polished Blur Finish

KIREAJI's collection ofmirror polished blur finishknives blends functionality with artistry.Meticulously craftedby skilled artisans, these knives are not onlyvisually stunningbut also boastexceptional sharpness. Elevate your culinary experience with tools that are asbeautiful as they are effective.

Mirror Polished Blur Finish
  • sharpening_a_knife

    Avoid Over-Polishing

    Be careful not to over-polish mirror-polished knives, as this can cause scratches.

  • daily_care_of_japanese_knife

    Washing

    After use, lightly wash the knife with detergent using the soft side of a sponge. The surface of a mirror-polished knife is very delicate, so dirt can be easily removed. Avoid using the rough side or a coarse sponge, as these can scratch the mirror-polished surface.

  • drying

    Drying

    After washing, thoroughly wipe off any moisture with a dry cloth to keep the knife clean and in optimal condition.

Common Questions About Mirror Polished

Knife_forging_process

What is mirror polishing?

Mirror polishing, in the context of Japanese knives, refers to the process of polishing the surface of a knife to achieve a mirror-like finish, akin to the reflection in a mirror.

What is the purpose of mirror polishing on knives?

Mirror polishing serves several purposes:

  1. Rust resistance: By creating a smooth surface, moisture penetration is reduced, making the knife less prone to rust. This is particularly beneficial for Japanese knives, which may use steel alloys that are not highly resistant to rust.
  2. Aesthetic appeal and luxury: The glossy finish of mirror polishing enhances the visual appeal of the knife, imparting a sense of luxury. It is popular among professional chefs who showcase their knife skills to customers and individuals who prioritize kitchen aesthetics.
  3. Ease of cleaning: The smooth surface reduces friction with food, making it less likely for dirt to adhere to the knife. This facilitates easier maintenance and keeps the knife clean.

Overall, mirror polishing helps maintain the sharpness of the knife and simplifies maintenance tasks. Due to its aesthetic appeal, it is favored by chefs who emphasize the presentation of their dishes and individuals who pay attention to kitchen design.

VIDEO PROVIDED: JAPAN TRADITIONAL CRAFTS AOYAMA SQUARE (YOUTUBE)

  • Be Cautious with Inexpensive Knives

  • Buying a cheap knife may mean that the steel used is of low quality. Low-quality steel tends to lose its sharpness quickly, which can ultimately reduce the efficiency of your cooking tasks.

    At KIREAJI, we provide authentic Japanese knives crafted by trusted craftsmen from knife-making workshops in Sakai City. Each knife is handcrafted with care, ensuring you receive a reliable and high-quality product that brings peace of mind.