Takahashi Kajiya ｜ Santoku Knife

Hand-forged Santoku Knife

This is a "Santoku Knife" from Takahashi Kajiya, a workshop located in Izumo City, Shimane Prefecture.
The Izumo region is known as a source of iron, and tatara iron-making has flourished there since ancient times. In this land, which is also said to be the origin of the "Yamata no Orochi" legend, sword making has been passed down through generations. Tsutomu Takahashi, the 4th generation of Takahashi Kajiya, continues to uphold the traditional forging method of "heating and hammering," finishing each knife by hand.

A particularly distinctive feature is the "wakashi" technique, which has been handed down in the Izumo region since ancient times.

"Wakashi" is the same method as Japanese sword making, where steel and iron are layered and hammered together at high temperatures to join them. It is said that "wakashi" is entirely dependent on the craftsman's experience, and the temperature control for heating and the strength of the hammer blows are extremely difficult. If the temperature is too high, the steel will melt, and if the force of the blows is too weak, it will peel apart, but if it's too strong, it will stick too tightly. It is a very delicate and time-consuming process that can only be judged by sight. Currently, Takahashi Kajiya is the only one in Shimane that can create with this technique, and there are only a handful nationwide.

The blade, forged by skilled hands, cuts surprisingly smoothly, allowing you to slice through soft vegetables like tomatoes and even meat tendons without resistance. This knife can be used in all aspects of daily meal preparation, such as cutting potatoes and onions, or thinly slicing chicken.

With a blade length of about 11cm, it is easy to handle and maneuver, making it a knife that every household would want.
The steel extends securely to the base of the handle, ensuring long-lasting use.

As knife sharpening and handle replacement are provided free of charge, even those who find maintenance troublesome can use it with peace of mind. (Shipping costs are borne by the customer)

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【Product Name】Santoku Knife
【Size (approx.)】Total length 230mm (Blade length approx. 110mm)
【Weight (approx.)】74g
【Materials】Blade: Steel/Iron, Handle: Magnolia wood (unfinished), Copper
【Country of Origin】Japan
【Remarks】Knife sharpening and handle replacement are free. (Shipping costs are borne by the customer)

●Before Purchase
・Since each item is handmade, there may be slight individual differences in size and shape.
・Due to the use of natural wood, there may be variations in wood grain and color.
・The slot where the blade meets the handle may be slightly off-center, or there may be gaps between the copper and the handle.
・Gaps or wood shavings may be visible at the joint between the copper and the handle.
Please be aware of the above before purchasing.

●Usage Precautions
・Always defrost frozen foods before cutting. Cutting semi-frozen food may cause chipping of the blade.
・After use, wash with water and dry with a cloth. Always store with the blade facing down.
・Do not use a dishwasher or dryer. This may damage the handle.

Takahashi Kajiya is a workshop located in Izumo City, Shimane Prefecture. Blacksmith Tsutomu Takahashi was born into a family of blacksmiths that has continued since the Meiji era, and as the fourth generation, he has inherited the tradition and techniques of knife making. The knives, meticulously finished through hand forging while focusing on the materials, naturally blend into the user's daily life and are cherished by many as lifelong tools.
Click here for a list of Takahashi Kajiya's works

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The handle is made of magnolia wood, which is lightweight and water-resistant. Easy to handle.
A blade made using the "wakashi" technique, where steel and iron are layered and hammered together to join them.
Double-edged specification, usable by both left and right-handed individuals.
The blade and handle are securely fixed with strong, durable copper after the tang is inserted.
From left: Paring knife, Santoku knife, Utility knife (small), Utility knife, Nakiri knife, Deba knife (medium)

Please be sure to confirm.

The following conditions are handled as good quality by our store. We do not accept exchanges or returns, so please purchase with understanding.
※Knife sharpening and handle replacement are provided free of charge. (Shipping costs are borne by the customer)
Since each item is handmade, there may be individual differences in size and shape. (Photo shows a small utility knife)
The slot where the blade meets the handle may be slightly off-center, or there may be gaps between the copper and the handle. Please understand this as a characteristic of handmade items. (Photo shows a paring knife)
Gaps or wood shavings may be visible at the joint between the copper and the handle. Please understand. (Photo shows a small utility knife)
The end of the handle may be black. Please understand. (Photo shows a small utility knife)
The handle may lift when placed down. (Photo shows a small utility knife)