Nakamura Wooden Sheath
A handmade wooden sheath that fits either the Nakamura Hamono Bunka knife or Curved Bunka Knife.
Nakamura Hamono, The Craftsmen Behind Oita’s Hand-Forged Blades
AS FEATURED ON YOUTUBE
Watch Nakamura Hamono forge knives and tools by hand, 120 years of tradition, still alive in Nakatsu.
OVERVIEW
Nakamura Hamono was founded in 1900 by master smith Eiji Nakamura, who trained under local sword makers in Nakatsu City, Oita Prefecture. Originally established as a kama (sickle) forge, the workshop expanded its craft under the second generation to include specialised tools such as warakiri, or rice straw cutters. Now led by the fourth generation, the Nakamura family continues to run the forge as a family operation, with father and son working side by side and the mother managing customer relations.
Over 120 years later, the smithy remains one of only two blacksmith workshops still active in Nakatsu. The name Nojiyama-naka, or Marunaka, reflects an old regional custom where forges combined local place names with surnames to distinguish their shop.
This heritage continues today in a workshop known not only for kitchen knives, but also for hand-forged sickles, shears, hoes, and field tools used by chefs, farmers, and tradespeople across Japan. Every piece is crafted in-house using traditional methods, with a focus on precision, durability, and connection to community.
PHILOSOPHY AND PROCESS
Crafted in Nakatsu, Trusted Worldwide
Nakamura Hamono has been forging blades in Nakatsu City, Oita Prefecture since 1900, when Eiji Nakamura established the workshop after training under local swordsmiths.
Now in its fourth generation, the family-run forge is led by Tetsuyoshi Nakamura and his son Kozo, with the mother managing customer care. Their small-scale production continues in the same workshop where it all began. Today, Nakamura knives are trusted by chefs, craftsmen, and collectors not only in Japan but around the world. Despite growing international recognition, every blade is still crafted in-house using traditional tools and methods.
A Family Forge with a Purpose
At Nakamura Hamono, craftsmanship is personal. Every knife is shaped, sharpened, and finished by hand, with production intentionally kept small to preserve quality. The family does not operate like a factory.
Kozo Nakamura continues to train under his father, learning the same techniques passed down since the Meiji era.
Alongside their core products, the family provides lifetime maintenance for each blade, including sharpening, repair, and reconditioning. This approach reflects their philosophy: trust comes first, and every tool should be built to last and serve its user well.
Forged, Ground, Sharpened, and Fitted by Hand
Nakamura blades are made using traditional high-carbon steels such as Blue #1 and Aogami, selected for their edge stability and fine grain. The entire process, from forging and heat-treating to grinding, sharpening, and handle fitting, is carried out within the Nakamura workshop.
This hands-on process ensures quality at every stage and gives each knife a unique character. With subtle forge markings, hand-polished handles, and an edge finished in three stages, every Nakamura knife carries the mark of its maker and the legacy of a craft honed over generations.
MESSAGE FROM THE MAKERS
We are the Nakamura family, fourth‑generation blacksmiths from Nakatsu. Every blade we forge carries not only steel, but our years of dedication and care. We do not chase speed or scale. Instead, we focus on tools made to work and last.
Our promise is simple: you will have our support for life. We sharpen, repair, and recondition every blade we create. When you choose a Nakamura knife, you choose trust, continuity, and the quiet confidence that comes from true craftsmanship.
How to Sharpen your knife
Caring for your knife will make it last you for decades. After use, wash it with clean hot water, dry it off thoroughly, and place it in newspaper to prevent rusting. Check out the video below for more information on how to sharpen your knife with a sharpening stone, and how to store it safely.