KENPEI · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia CommonsCraft · Osaka
Sakai knives
堺打刃物
Sakai, just south of Osaka city, has made blades since the 1500s, when its smiths forged tobacco knives and then cooking knives. The work is still split between specialists: one workshop forges, another sharpens, another fits the handle. Many professional chefs in Japan use Sakai knives.
The easiest place to see it all is the Sakai Traditional Crafts Museum (Sakai Denshokan). It has a small knife museum, a shop full of chef's knives from local makers, and sharpening classes. Getting there on the old Hankai tram is part of the fun.
What to see and do
Displays on the history of Sakai blades, how they're made and the tools used, plus a chandelier made from knife-making materials.
Knives from many Sakai makers under one roof, alongside local incense and other crafts.
Knife-sharpening and incense-making classes are offered. Book ahead.
The second floor shows local textiles, carp streamers and other traditional industries.
Good to know
- Kitchen knives can travel in checked luggage, not in the cabin. Ask the shop to wrap them securely.
- Book sharpening classes in advance and check the price with the museum.
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Former shipyard buildings on the waterfront, now used for art events and studios.
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