Introducing Hanaha: A Knife that Blends Tradition and Beauty
The Concept
Walk into any kitchen store in Japan and you'll be overwhelmed by knives—dozens of shapes, styles, and levels of quality. If you're planning to buy one, chances are you'll leave with whatever feels good in your hand and looks right to your eye.
What can be lost in this moment is a deeper connection to the knife—where it comes from, who made it, and what it represents.
That’s the idea behind Hanaha Japanese Kitchen Knives. We wanted to create a blade that not only performs beautifully, but also shares a story.
Each Hanaha knife is crafted by individual Japanese artisans and paired with a flower emblem that reflects the region it comes from. Through this series, we hope to share the unique history, craftsmanship, and seasonal spirit of Japan—one blade at a time.
What is Hanaha?
The name Hanaha (花刃) combines two kanji—flower and blade. At first glance, they may seem like opposites: one delicate and decorative, the other practical and precise.
But in Japan, beauty and utility often go hand in hand. Nature is woven into daily life, from seasonal traditions to handmade tools. Hanaha was created to reflect that harmony—pairing regional flower emblems with the refined artistry of Japanese bladesmiths.
Each Hanaha knife is both a tool of exceptional sharpness and durability, and a piece that carries the spirit of its place of origin. Our goal is simple: to offer knives that are not only made to perform—but made to mean something.
Sakai City and Plum Blossoms
Sakai City in Osaka holds a special place in Japan’s regional knife-making history. Known for its single-bevel blades, Sakai continues to adhere to centuries-old forging traditions. The craft dates back to the 5th century, with the city gaining national recognition by the 16th for its exceptional sharpness and quality.
Each knife is still made through a unique division of labor—smiths, sharpeners, and handle makers all contribute their part, often in small workshops attached to their homes.
For the Hanaha release, the plum blossom—a cherished symbol of this region—features proudly on the body of the blade. A symbol of strength and early spring, the flower reflects both the spirit of the artisans and the character of the knife itself.
Hanaha Knife Details
Every Hanaha knife is crafted to perform beautifully in the kitchen, balancing sharpness, durability, and ease of care.
At its core is AUS10 high-carbon stainless steel, a Japanese material chosen for its exceptional edge retention and toughness. The blade is then clad with 44 layers of softer stainless steel—22 on each side—creating a distinctive Damascus pattern and added resilience.
Each blade is polished to a semi-mirror finish by hand, with select models featuring a hand-hammered texture for a more traditional aesthetic.
The handle is made from Japanese oak, finished with a protective lacquer that brings out the natural grain while guarding against moisture.
This is a knife made to be used—and admired—for years to come.
Who is Hanaha For?
With all the talk of quality, tradition, and craftsmanship, you might wonder if a Hanaha knife is the right fit for you. Hanaha was created with everyone in mind—from the home cook preparing family meals, to the professional chef demanding precision, and even the passionate collector who values artistry.
This versatile blade is designed to excel in everyday use while carrying the spirit of generations of Japanese artisans. Whether you’re slicing vegetables, filleting fish, or simply appreciating a finely made tool, Hanaha invites you to experience the harmony of function and beauty.
More than just a knife, it’s a connection to Japan’s rich history and the dedicated craftsmen who bring each blade to life.
To view our complete catalogue of knives, click here and experience firsthand the craftsmanship of a well-made Japanese knife.