Nakagawa Knives: Tradition Forged Anew

Based in the historic knife-making city of Sakai, Osaka, Nakagawa Knives stands as a leading name in Japan’s contemporary blacksmithing world. Headed by master craftsman Satoshi Nakagawa, the workshop continues the centuries-old heritage of Sakai blades while redefining what modern Japanese craftsmanship can achieve. Nakagawa, the sole apprentice and successor of legendary blacksmith Kenichi Shiraki, earned the title of Traditional Craftsman (Dento Kogei-shi) at an unprecedentedly young age, a distinction that marks both his technical mastery and his commitment to preserving Japan’s forging traditions.

Nakagawa’s approach blends ancestral swordsmithing methods with modern innovation, creating knives renowned worldwide for their remarkable balance of beauty, precision, and cutting performance. His blades embody the aesthetic grace of Japanese artistry while delivering the strength and functionality demanded by professional chefs. Each knife reflects a philosophy rooted in patience, respect for materials, and a pursuit of perfection in every detail.

Forged using time-honored tanzo forging techniques, Nakagawa Knives are hammered and shaped by hand to densify the steel’s structure, enhancing both toughness and edge retention. Distinctive finishes, such as the workshop’s flame-like hamon and elegant Damascus patterns, showcase a visual artistry rarely seen in modern cutlery. These unique designs, combined with outstanding performance, have made Nakagawa Knives’ blades highly sought after by chefs and collectors alike.

Today, Nakagawa Knives continues to push the boundaries of traditional craftsmanship, incorporating advanced materials such as SPG STRIX stainless steel, a new generation of powdered steel known for its exceptional sharpness, durability, and ease of sharpening. Each knife is not just a tool, but a fusion of history and innovation — the living legacy of Sakai’s blacksmithing excellence, carried forward by one of Japan’s most gifted modern masters.