Kurotori Hamono, established at the beginning of the Meiji era by Heiji Kajiwara, stands as a testament to the rich knife-making traditions of the Tosa region. Now in its fourth generation under Mr. Kajihara, this renowned forge has been crafting exceptional cutlery for over 150 years. What distinguishes Kurotori from other Japanese knife-making regions is their adherence to the traditional Tosa method, where a single master craftsman oversees the entire knife-making process—from free-hand forging to handle fitting and final sharpening—resulting in blades celebrated for their extraordinary sharpness and durability.
With deep roots in Shikoku's Kochi Prefecture (formerly Tosa), Kurotori Hamono has built a reputation throughout Japan for producing premium knives and agricultural tools. While honoring ancestral techniques passed down through generations, Mr. Kajihara simultaneously infuses contemporary design elements into his creations. This harmonious blend of time-honored craftsmanship and innovative vision ensures that Kurotori not only preserves the cultural heritage of Tosa cutlery but also evolves it for future generations, offering users an authentic piece of Japanese knife-making history with every blade.