Win-Win for All

  • At KIREAJI, our mission is to create a harmonious balance that benefits everyone involved—from our valued customers to the skilled artisans who craft our products, and the vibrant community of Sakai City. We offer exquisite Japanese knives that embody centuries of tradition and craftsmanship, ensuring that each piece brings joy and connection to its owner.

  • By supporting sustainable practices and fair compensation for our artisans, and actively contributing to the local community, we strive to foster a mutually beneficial relationship that preserves cultural heritage and promotes growth.

Customers

  • At KIREAJI, we offer the finest Japanese knives, sharing the rich tradition and craftsmanship behind each piece. Our aim is to provide you with lifelong tools that bring daily joy and a deep connection to your culinary experiences. With our comprehensive maintenance and repair services, we ensure a long-lasting relationship with our products and our brand, so you can enjoy your knives for years to come.

    Kenshiro Azuma (Tsukiji OMASAKSE Head Chef & Owner) 

Producers (Artisans and Workshops)

Community

  • KIREAJI is committed to the revitalization of Sakai City and the preservation of traditional techniques. We focus on protecting the local cultural heritage and creating new value by providing sustainable products. Our goal is to build "win-win" relationships with the community, ensuring that everyone involved shares in the happiness and benefits of our collective success.

    Why do 98% of Japanese Chefs Use Knives from Sakai City? 

Passing Down Tradition: The Challenges of Sakai Forged Blades and a Community-Rooted Future

  • The production sites of Sakai forged blades, a symbol of Japan's craftsmanship, are demanding environments filled with metal dust, smoke, and oil. For both blacksmiths and sharpeners, the transmission of their craft to the next generation is an essential yet daunting task. However, these jobs are rarely seen as attractive career options by modern youth accustomed to comfort and convenience. As a result, a severe shortage of successors has become a pressing issue.

  • Mastering the craft requires 7–10 years for forging and 3–4 years for sharpening, making it a long and arduous journey. Additionally, the traditional apprenticeship system—with its hierarchical structure—can deter young people from joining the trade. To address this, Sakai City has introduced the "Monozukuri Meister System," offering financial support to apprentices for up to three years, capped at 50,000 yen per month. While this initiative has garnered some interest, the fundamental challenge lies in the fact that many craftsmen struggle to afford the cost of hiring apprentices due to financial constraints.

  • In this difficult landscape, a compelling story emerges from A-san's family. Both of A-san’s sons have chosen to follow in their father’s footsteps, not only as blacksmiths but also as active contributors to their community. A-san, who teaches judo locally, inspired his sons with his dual role—dedicated craftsman and community mentor. His sons observed the fulfillment their father found in both perfecting his craft and teaching children, realizing that this life offered more than financial stability. It provided a sense of purpose and connection to the community.

  • This story highlights an important lesson: the future of Sakai forged blades lies not only in preserving traditional skills but also in creating an environment where younger generations can discover meaningful connections between their craft and the community. A-san’s sons found their calling through a blend of technical mastery and the joy of teaching judo to local children—a balance of personal growth and communal contribution.

  • As the industry evolves, so must the way skills are passed down. Beyond traditional apprenticeship systems, what’s needed is an educational approach that inspires young people to experience, think, and engage with the craft. Through this, they can forge their path while understanding the deeper significance of living and working in harmony with their community.

The Origin of Craftsmanship

  • The 'thank you' from a customer who holds the finished knife is my greatest reward.

    As a craftsman, no matter how much effort and skill I put into my work, the most important thing is the reaction when the knife is finally in the customer's hands. The word 'thank you' from the person using the knife is the most valuable reward I could ever receive.

  • That one word carries more meaning than all the effort, time, and care I put into creating the knife. While I feel a sense of accomplishment the moment the knife is completed, what truly matters is the satisfaction and joy of the customer. Imagining them enjoying their cooking with the blade, I know that no matter how tired I might feel, that single 'thank you' makes everything worthwhile.

  • To hear "thank you" is more than just a word. It is proof that the knife I crafted has made its way into daily life, contributing to joyful meals and the smiles that follow. It is these moments that inspire me to continue crafting knives with care and dedication.
Sakai Traditional Craftsmen Collection

  • 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.