Responding to Customer Requests

  • At KIREAJI, we are committed to delivering high-quality Japanese knives crafted by the skilled artisans of Sakai City to customers around the world. Each customer’s request is a valuable treasure to us, and we strive to listen carefully and provide the best possible service.

    Here, we proudly share three examples of how we’ve responded to our customers’ needs.

1. Upgrading to a Custom Handle – Elevating craftsmanship with premium materials –

  • Customer Request

    A customer from the USA, Mr. J, requested to upgrade the handle of his Ginsan Damascus Yanagiba (Sakimaru) 400mm from the standard Ebony to a more luxurious Snakewood.

    Ginsan Damascus Yanagiba (Sakimaru) 400mm 

  • KIREAJI’s Response

    • Collaborated closely with Shiroyama Knife Workshop in Sakai City to select the optimal handle material for this unique blade.
    • Delivered a custom-tailored product that perfectly combined aesthetics and functionality.

2. Developing a Left-Handed Knife – Bridging tradition and innovation –

  • Customer Request

    Mr. John from the USA expressed a strong desire to use a left-handed Japanese knife crafted in Sakai City.

  • KIREAJI’s Response

    • Began developing the world’s first Super Steel (Honyaki) Yanagiba (Sakimaru) 300mm - Left-handed model.
    • Production is currently in progress, fully handcrafted by skilled artisans. The estimated completion time is about two months.
    • Decided to expand the collection of left-handed knives to meet future demands.
Left-Handed Japanese Knife Collection

3. Visiting Shiroyama Knife Workshop – A Personalized Experience in Sakai City –

  • Customer Request

    Many customers planning trips to Japan have expressed a desire to visit the renowned Shiroyama Knife Workshop in Sakai City to see and inspect the knives in person.

  • KIREAJI’s Response

    • Flexible Scheduling Assistance
      Shiroyama Knife Workshop is generally open to visitors on weekdays from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. However, they are unable to accommodate visits on weekends.
    • Personalized Scheduling Coordination
      Once customers share their preferred dates via our contact form, the KIREAJI customer support team liaises directly with Shiroyama Knife Workshop to arrange and confirm the visit.
    Contact us 

  • We are committed to providing each customer with an unforgettable and personalized experience, connecting them with the tradition and craftsmanship of Sakai City.
Shiroyama Knife Workshop

4. Discover Your Ideal Knife with KIREAJI

  • Customer Request

    At KIREAJI, we receive inquiries from around the world about finding the perfect knife tailored to each customer’s unique cooking style and needs. One customer from the UK requested “a knife suited to everyday cooking” and expressed a desire to “create a cohesive set with matching handles.”

  • KIREAJI’s Response

    • Detailed Consultation
      We conducted a thorough consultation to understand the customer’s cooking habits, intended use, and specific requirements.
    • Tailored Recommendations
      Based on the information provided, we carefully selected a range of options, explaining the unique features and benefits of each knife. Additionally, we ensured a cohesive design by aligning the handle styles as requested.

  • At KIREAJI, we proudly serve customers from all over the world. If you are searching for the perfect knife, we invite you to reach out to us through our “Contact Us” page.

  • We are committed to helping you discover the ideal knife that enhances your cooking style and culinary aspirations. We hope KIREAJI knives become a cherished part of your kitchen and elevate your cooking experience.
Contact us

5. Looking for Traditional Japanese Knives Crafted by Master Artisans?

  • Customer Request

    A customer from China inquired about the availability of a 300mm Ginsan Yanagiba forged by Shogo Yamatsuka, which was not listed on the KIREAJI website.

  • KIREAJI’s Response

    • Contacted Shiroyama Knife Workshop in Sakai City to check for stock of the requested blade not currently featured on the KIREAJI shop.
    • Provided the customer with detailed stock availability and purchasing options.
    • Ensured seamless communication and a highly satisfying experience by addressing the customer’s specific needs.
Contact us

6. Looking for a Japanese Knife Blade Only?

  • Customer Requests

    "I want to attach my own custom handle."
    "I prefer to refine the sharpening myself, so I only need the blade."
    Many passionate customers have reached out to us, asking if they can purchase just the blade of a traditional Japanese knife.

  • KIREAJI’s Response

    To meet these requests, KIREAJI collaborates with Shiroyama Knife Workshop in Sakai City to check the availability of the desired blade.
    We provide a detailed quotation based on stock availability, and if the customer agrees, we arrange the sale of the blade only.

  • Important Notes

    • Only the blade is available for purchase. A wooden sheath (saya) and final sharpening (honbazuke) are not included.
    • As each knife is handcrafted, availability may vary, and additional time may be required for procurement.

  • At KIREAJI, we strive to be the bridge between traditional craftsmanship and customers who share a deep appreciation for fine Japanese blades.
    If you're looking for a specific knife, please feel free to contact us!
Contact us

7. Looking for Traditional Japanese Knives and Authentic Accessories?

  • Ōhira Natural Finishing Whetstone

  • Customer Request

    In addition to inquiries about traditional Japanese knives, many customers from around the world have recently asked whether KIREAJI could offer natural whetstones—the same stones used by artisans in Sakai to achieve the finest edge.
    Customers also expressed interest in traditional accessories such as Moribashi plating chopsticks and knife bags, hoping to experience the full spirit of Japanese craftsmanship.

  • KIREAJI’s Response

    In response to these requests, KIREAJI has officially begun offering Japanese Natural Whetstones, starting with one carefully selected stone that represents the finest quality and authenticity.
    This stone is sourced from Japan and chosen for its ability to bring out the true sharpness and beauty of traditional Japanese blades.

  • Alongside this, we continue to provide select accessories such as plating chopsticks (87 CAD) and knife bags (42 CAD), available when ordered together with a knife.

    We are deeply grateful for our customers’ passion and trust, and we will continue to expand our offerings—one request at a time—to share the true craftsmanship of Sakai with kitchens around the world.
Japanese Natural Whetstone

8. Looking for Rare Honyaki Knives by Legendary Japanese Craftsmen?

  • Genkai Masakuni

    Customer Request

    A customer from the United States asked whether KIREAJI carries Honyaki Mizuyaki knives by Genkai Masakuni, a rare craftsman known for inheriting the techniques of the legendary Masakuni Okishiba.
    They also inquired about knives sharpened by Ken Hakuho (Kenpakuho), often considered one of the greatest Japanese edge finishers of all time.

  • KIREAJI’s Response

    Yes — KIREAJI is proud to offer an exclusive selection of Honyaki Mizuyaki knives by Genkai Masakuni. These are among the most sought-after blades in the world and are available in extremely limited quantities

  • About Genkai Masakuni

    Genkai Masakuni is the sole apprentice of Masakuni Okishiba, the pioneer of Honyaki Mizuyaki. Known as “Heianjo Okishiba,” Okishiba’s works are regarded as national treasures in the world of Japanese cutlery. Genkai Masakuni continues this legacy, forging exceptionally rare and masterfully crafted knives that reflect the highest traditions of Japanese bladesmithing.
Genkai Masakuni

9. Want to Be Notified About Our Newest Creations?

  • Customer Request

    A customer requested to be notified by email whenever new creations become available.

  • KIREAJI’s Response

    In response, KIREAJI has added an email subscription form to the footer of every page, right below the message:
    “Sign up to get updates on our latest creations.”
    Simply enter your email address in the field provided to subscribe.
    After registering, you will receive a confirmation email—please confirm your subscription by clicking the approval link.
    You can unsubscribe anytime by clicking the unsubscribe link included at the bottom of any notification email.
    Feel free to sign up with confidence and be the first to discover our newest creations.

Our Commitment

  • At KIREAJI, customer voices are not background noise — they are the driving force of our evolution.
    By listening closely and responding sincerely, we ensure every knife is more than a product: it is a connection between you, the artisans of Sakai, and a centuries-old tradition.

  • When you choose KIREAJI, you are not only receiving a knife.
    You are joining a circle of trust, respect, and shared passion that keeps Japanese craftsmanship alive.
About KIREAJI

The Soul of Craftsmanship

  • Smiles Beyond the Blade

    Every knife we forge with care and precision eventually finds its way into the hands of our customers—becoming more than a tool, but a partner in creating meals that bring families and friends together. The smiles, laughter, and warm memories born from those meals are our greatest reward.

  • In the workshop, as we feel the heat of the iron and hear the steady rhythm of sharpening, we work with one thought in mind: “This blade will become part of someone’s happiness.” That belief fuels every strike of the hammer, every careful grind.

  • Each time a customer says, “Cooking has become so much more enjoyable with this knife,” it reaffirms why we do what we do. Their joy ignites our passion and pushes us to craft even finer blades.

  • Traditional craftsmanship may be timeless, but the happiness it creates is always fresh and new. To be part of that living connection—between steel, hands, and heart—is both our pride and our mission as artisans.
Sakai Traditional Craftsmen Collection

Our Story

  • Tradition of Sakai, in Your Hands

    "Where can I find a truly great knife?"
    We started KIREAJI to answer that question. While the number of skilled craftsmen is declining in Japan, many people overseas are seeking authentic blades. With that in mind, we carefully deliver each knife—bridging tradition and kitchens around the world.
Our Story