"Tosa Uchi Hamono Knives" that are close to the user, Shimanto Town, Kochi Prefecture

Shimantocho, Takaoka District, Kochi Prefecture, is located in the middle reaches of the Shimanto River, known as the last clear stream in Japan.

The town is surrounded by rich nature, including mountains, rivers and the sea, and has the largest forest in Kochi Prefecture.

This time, we would like to introduce "Tosa Forged Blades," a traditional craft that Kochi Prefecture takes great pride in, along with the long-established workshop "Kajiya Kurotori" that produces them in this town.

What is Tosa Uchi Hamono Knives

"Kurotori Blacksmith" was founded in the early Meiji period and is a long-established blacksmith of Tosa cutlery with over 150 years of history.

Tosa cutlery includes axes, sickles, and hoes, and has long been used as indispensable tools for cultivating land and farming in this deep mountainous region.

In addition, the climate in this region is ideal for tree growth, and it has long been known as a producer of high-quality timber. As a result, sturdy blades were needed for felling forests, and it is said that the production of cutting blades became popular.

Knives that are close to the user

The greatest feature of Tosa blades is "free forging," a traditional method in which craftsmen do not use molds, but instead use a hammer to forge a lump of iron that has been baked in a furnace.

At Kurotori Blacksmith, we hand forge each blade, combining iron and steel, and adjust the size, shape, angle, hardness, weight, and other aspects to create a blade that suits the user's use and purpose.

The blades have a rational shape not found in mass-produced products and are truly masterpieces that highlight the skill of the artisans.

Tradition and evolution

Currently, the sixth-generation craftsman, Mr. Hiroshi, together with skilled artisans, continues to create Tosa forged blades suited for modern life by incorporating new technologies and materials based on the concept of "affordable, fast, and skillful."

Please take a look at these beautiful knives adorned with traditional Japanese patterns.

Stainless steel household knives, made using Tosa blade techniques, are rust-resistant, can be resharpened, and can be used for a long time.

Why not visit Shimanto Town in Kochi Prefecture and find your very own Tosa-uchi knife at Blacksmith Kurotori?

With regular maintenance, you can use the blade for a lifetime.

Message for guests visiting Japan

At Kurotori Blacksmith, you can also experience making a knife, tour the factory, and have your blades maintained. Please contact us in advance.

Store Information

Address and Access

〒786-0043 430 Hondo, Shimanto-cho, Takaoka-gun, Kochi Prefecture

Kochi Prefecture: Kurotori Forging Factory

Introducing the traditional craft of knives