• Sakai City's Traditional Craftsmen of Japanese Knives: Guardians of Skill and Tradition

  • What is a Traditional Craftsman: The Pinnacle of Skill Recognized by the Nation

    Traditional craftsmen are not just ordinary artisans, but top-tier technicians recognized by the government. In Sakai City's Japanese knife-making industry, traditional craftsmen possess exceptional skills and knowledge acquired through decades of rigorous training and experience. They are living treasures who continue to preserve the tradition of knife manufacturing in Sakai.

  • This national certification is proof that the artisan's skills are recognized at the national level, and its value is evident from the following points:

  • At least 12 years of practical experience required:

    Craftsmen must have been engaged in the manufacture of traditional crafts designated by the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry for many years, demonstrating the depth and continuity of their skills.

  • Skill verification through rigorous testing:

    They must pass tests that comprehensively assess their technical skills and knowledge, objectively proving their abilities.

  • Deep connection with the production area:

    In many cases, craftsmen are required to reside in the area where the craft is produced, ensuring they possess skills deeply rooted in local traditions and culture.

  • Number of Traditional Craftsmen: Rare Inheritors of Skill

    As of May 2024, there are only 29 traditional craftsmen specializing in Japanese knives in Sakai City. This number alone shows how rare and valuable they are. These craftsmen have been certified through strict examinations and play a crucial role in supporting Sakai's knife industry.

  • Japanese Knife Manufacturing Process

  • Path to Becoming a Traditional Craftsman: Over 10 Years of Rigorous Training

    To become a traditional craftsman, one must go through the following demanding processes:

  • Minimum 10-year apprenticeship period:

    They learn everything from basic to advanced techniques.

  • Challenging examinations:

    They must pass both theoretical and practical exams. The pass rate is extremely low.

  • Continuous skill improvement:

    Even after certification, they must maintain high-level skills and continue to refine their craft.

  • Role of Traditional Craftsmen: Guardians and Innovators of Technique

  • Traditional craftsmen play the following important roles in Japanese knife production:

  • Passing down skills:

    They teach techniques to the next generation of artisans, preserving tradition.

  • Maintaining quality:

    They produce high-quality knives, maintaining Sakai City's reputation.

  • Innovation:

    While preserving tradition, they also incorporate new techniques and materials, constantly improving their products.

  • Challenges for the Future: Balancing Tradition and Innovation

  • Traditional craftsmen face the following challenges:

  • Shortage of successors:

    The decreasing number of young artisans makes it difficult to pass on techniques.

  • Market changes:

    Intensifying global competition requires maintaining quality while reducing costs.

  • Methods of skill transmission:

    More effective education and training programs are needed to pass on advanced skills to the next generation.

  • Conclusion: Continuing to Protect Japan's Treasures

  • The traditional craftsmen of Sakai City are treasures of Japan's knife industry, and their skills and passion support Sakai's knife production. Thanks to their efforts and innovations, Sakai City's Japanese knives continue to be loved by chefs around the world. However, it is our modern-day mission to overcome future challenges and ensure that these valuable skills and traditions are passed on to the next generation.
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Sakai Traditional Craftsmen Collection

Our commitment is to ensure the highest quality by offering our customers Japanese knives crafted by craftsmen in Sakai City.
Additionally, we aspire to honor and uphold the over 600-year-old history and tradition of Sakai knives.

Sakai Traditional Craftsmen Collection

The Origin of Craftsmanship

  • Sakai City’s Japanese knives are not merely tools; they are artistic masterpieces embodying 600 years of tradition.

  • Sakai’s Japanese knives go beyond being simple utensils. They are artworks infused with the skills and spirit of craftsmen who have honed their techniques over six centuries. Every blade holds the wisdom, ingenuity, and relentless efforts of countless generations. Each time I hold one of these knives, I feel the profound responsibility to pass on this tradition to the next generation. I want those who use these knives to feel not only the grip and sharpness in their hands but also the rich history etched within each cut. This is what makes Sakai’s Japanese knives truly exceptional.

KIREAJI's Three Promises to You

  • japanese_knife_made_in_Sakai

    1. High-quality Japanese Knive

    We offer knives crafted by craftsmen from Sakai City.

  • Honbazuke

    2. Genuine Sharpness

    To ensure you experience sharpness, we provide a free Honbazuke by our skilled craftsmen.

  • after_service

    3. Lifetime Knife Use

    Every knife comes with a free Saya(Sheath) for durability. We also provide paid after-sales services with Sakai City Japanese knife workshop.