Hasu Seizo Blog

Isamitsu Knives: A New Generation of Japanese Blades Trained Under Teruyasu Fujiwara

Forged under the demanding eye of master blacksmith Teruyasu Fujiwara, Isamitsu knives represent a rare balance of uncompromising tradition and modern performance. These handmade Japanese chef kniv...

Common Knife Sharpening Mistakes (And How to Fix Them)

Sharpening a knife shouldn’t feel mysterious—but small mistakes can quietly ruin your edge. Learn the most common knife sharpening errors home cooks make and how to fix them for cleaner cuts, longe...

Fujiwara Yasuhiko: A Dento Kogeishi Master Preserving Miki’s Blacksmith Legacy

A rare title. A living tradition. Discover how Fujiwara Yasuhiko, one of Japan’s officially recognized master blacksmiths, preserves centuries of Miki craftsmanship through his hand-forged kogatana...

Meet the Makers: Profiles of Japan’s Most Influential Contemporary Knife Artisans

Behind every exceptional Japanese knife is a master artisan whose philosophy, training, and dedication shape the blade. Meet the makers defining modern Japanese knifemaking.

How to Flatten a Whetstone (And Why It Matters for Sharpness)

A flat whetstone is the foundation of a sharp knife. Learn how to flatten a whetstone properly, how often it’s needed, and why uneven stones sabotage your sharpening results—no matter your skill le...

Seki Knife History: How Samurai Swordsmithing Shaped Modern Japanese Cutlery

For over 800 years, Seki has stood at the crossroads of steel, skill, and discipline. This is the story of how samurai swordsmith traditions evolved into the precision kitchen knives used by chefs ...

How Often Should You Sharpen Japanese Knives? A Practical Guide

How often should you sharpen Japanese knives? The answer depends on steel type, cutting habits, and daily care. This practical guide breaks down sharpening frequency, maintenance tips, and simple h...

Sawakazuma Knives: Echizen’s Ultra-Thin Blades and 700 Years of Forging Tradition

Sawakazuma knives represent the cutting edge of Echizen’s 700-year forging tradition. Ultra-thin, precise, and handcrafted by skilled Echizen knife makers, these Japanese knives deliver effortless ...

Nagao Kanekoma and Higonokami: The Last True Makers of Japan’s Iconic Folding Knife

The Higonokami is more than a folding knife—it is a symbol of Japanese ingenuity, simplicity, and resilience. Today, only one workshop remains legally authorized to make it: Nagao Kanekoma. Discove...

Shigeki Tanaka Knives: Mastering Both Single-Bevel and Double-Bevel Craft

Shigeki Tanaka is one of the rare Japanese master blacksmiths who excels in both single-bevel and double-bevel knives. From traditional Echizen roots to modern performance steels, his knives balanc...