Sakai Takayuki Knives by Aoki Hamono

Founded in 1947 in Sakai, Japan—renowned for its centuries-old knife-making tradition—Aoki Hamono has been hand-forging Sakai knives for nearly a century. The company was originally named after its founder, but following the birth of his son—who would become the second-generation owner—they also adopted the name Sakai Takayuki, now known worldwide.

Today, Aoki Hamono is led by the third generation and powered by a passionate team of master craftsmen and young artisans. Together, they continue to blend time-honored forging techniques with fresh ideas and modern craftsmanship.

Every Aoki Hamono knife is hand-forged one by one, with meticulous care poured into each step of the process. This spirit of collaboration, discipline, and artistry results in kitchen knives that are razor-sharp, exceptionally durable, and infused with the unmatched soul of Sakai craftsmanship.

The family forge has seen both hardship and rebirth. During Hiroyuki’s father’s time, a devastating mudslide caused by Mt. Unzen’s eruption destroyed their original smithy. But the family didn’t give up—they rebuilt it with their own hands, keeping their craft and legacy alive.