OMOI (想) by Tadokoro Hamono Collaboration
INTRODUCING OMOI (想) BY TADOKORO HAMONO
OMOI (想) is Japanese Food Craftsman's exclusive collaboration brand, created through partnerships with exceptional Japanese artisans to develop pieces that exist nowhere else. In Japanese, omoi means "thought," "feeling," or "intention". It is the inner spirit guiding a craftsman's hand.
In this collection, OMOI (想) is partnering with master sharpener Makoto Tadokoro. These aren't his standard knives. Their configurations, finishes, and handle options were developed based on feedback from our community (Youtube, newsletter subscribers, and more). Each piece blends Makoto Tadokoro's 30+ years of mastery with our understanding of what works in real kitchens.
Every knife in this collection bears both Tadokoro Hamono and OMOI (想) marks on the blade, a symbol of our shared commitment to exceptional craftsmanship. And they are exclusive to our store, so you will not find them anywhere else.
OMOI (想) & Tadokoro Hamono Lineup
About the Craftsman
MEET THE ARTISAN BEHIND TADOKORO HAMONO
At 16 years old, Makoto Tadokoro entered a knife workshop in Kochi prefecture, driven by fierce competitiveness. After 17 years of learning, he went independent only to realize he didn't know how to make truly exceptional knives.
He traveled Japan's knife centers studying the masters. In Sakai, the historic heart of Japanese cutlery, he discovered an entirely different approach: 20-30 hand processes per blade compared to the 10 he'd learned.
He found Sakai's top sharpener and showed up unannounced, who after looking at his works decided he showed promise and took Tadokoro under his wing. Thus, for years he traveled between Kochi and Sakai, relearning everything from scratch.
Through his training, Makoto Tadokoro learned a surprising truth: 90% of Japan's traditional knives are sold as "Sakai" products, yet 70% are actually forged in Kochi — always hidden, never credited.
"Kochi has world-class craftsmen," he says. "We should be known for it."
How Tadokoro Hamono Knives Are Made
All Tadokoro Hamono blades are forged by Nakagawa Knives in Sakai.
Then, Makoto Tadokoro applies his Sakai-trained sharpening techniques in his Tosa city workshop, hand-sharpening each knife through meticulous processes while observing its unique characteristics.
In Japanese knife-making, the sharpener determines final performance. With over 30 years perfecting this craft, Tadokoro Hamono has earned recognition by many professional sushi chefs and cooking enthusiasts as one of Japan's finest, proof that Kochi craftsmanship deserves the spotlight.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What makes OMOI (想) knives different from Tadokoro Hamono's regular work?
OMOI (想) knives are co-created exclusively with Japanese Food Craftsman.
The specific models, blade finishes, and handle options in this collection
were developed through our collaboration based on feedback from our community.
They're not part of Tadokoro-san's standard lineup and are sold exclusively on Japanese Food Craftsman store.
How many knives are available?
This is a limited production run with a total of 64 variations available among different blade types, sizes and handle combinations. These combiantions have only 1-2 units available. Once sold out, restock timing is uncertain and depends on Tadokoro Hamono's workshop capacity.
Are Tadokoro Hamono knives dishwasher safe?
No, Tadokoro Hamono knives should not be washed in the dishwasher due to their artisanal crafting process. To prevent damage to your knife and ensure it lasts you for years to come, please wash the knife by hand with a mild detergent and gentle sponge.
How should I care for my Tadokoro Hamono knife?
After each use, be sure to wash the knife by hand using a mild detergent and gentle sponge. Rinse clean and wipe with a soft dish towel until completely dry. Store in a dry place.
Will my Tadokoro Hamono knife rust?
Tadokoro Hamono knives are crafted using Ginsan No.3, a type of stainless steel, making them rust resistant and low maintenance when compared to carbon steel knives. However, rust can still occasionally form even on stainless steel knives, so be sure to dry your knife completely before putting it away and to store in a dry place to prevent rust from forming.
How much will shipping cost?
All prices include FREE international shipping. Please allow up to 5 weeks for shipping, depending on your country of residence. Please see our Shipping Policy for details.
Please note: Our products ship directly from Japan to you. You may be required to pay customs duties and/or customs clearance fees upon delivery (if applicable in your country). US customers please see our Important Notice for US Customers.
Will there be more OMOI collaborations?
Yes. OMOI OMOI (想) is our collaboration brand for partnering with exceptional
Japanese craftsmen. Each collection is exclusive to a specific maker and
available only through our store.
How do you sharpen a Tadokoro Hamono knife?
Check out the video below in order to know how Tadokoro master artisan himself sharpens his knives for better performance and long lasting duration.