Experience the craftsmanship of Kawasaki Kajiya, a small, family-run blacksmith shop with over 100 years of history. Located in the town of Shiroishi-cho in Saga Prefecture, Kyushu, "Kajiya" translates to "blacksmith" in English. Now in its third generation, the shop is led by Mr. Kawasaki, who works alongside his nephew, Mr. Mizokami, representing the fourth generation of skilled artisans.
Currently, they craft four styles of knives using Hitachi Shirogami #1 steel, also known as White Paper Steel, paired with soft iron cladding. These knives offer exceptional sharpness and ease of sharpening, perfect for precise kitchen work. Remember that carbon steel will rust if left wet.
Blacksmith: Kawasaki san
Location: Shiroishi-cho in Saga-prefecture, Japan
Construction: Hammer Forged, San Mai
Edge Steel: Hitachi White #1
Cladding: Iron
Finish: Kurouchi
Edge Grind: Even
Handle: Ho Wood Oval
Ferrule: Plastic
Weight: 2.2 oz (64 g)
Edge Length: 110 mm
Total Length: 232 mm
Spine Thickness at Base: 2.4 mm
Blade Height: 39.5 mm