Nigara Hamono has been appointed by the region of Tsugaru to make Japanese swords over 350 years ago. As one of the few noble swordsmiths in Japan, they have continued to preserve this art. During the Showa period, the 5th generation Kunitoshi Nigara, the master swordsmith, was a legendary swordsmith praised for his work and considered a national treasure.

Today, the 8th generation young blacksmith Tsuyoshi Yoshizawa, (son of the company’s president Toshiju Yoshizawa), is evolving the family traditions creating unique knives.

The fully handcrafted Ginsan (Silver-3) series are made with an amazing mixed Nashiji / Damascus finish. It’s a thick, sturdy type of knife, with very thick spine but an impressive distal taper towards the tip for the ‘Workhorse’ lovers. One of the most beautiful finishes in our collection.

Meaning “Beef knife” in Japanese, the Gyuto the most common and basic of all knives, is the Japanese version of the classic Western Chef’s knife. It is a knife that is used as a multi-purpose knife, suitable for a wide range of tasks and with a variety of different cutting techniques. Is shaped for cutting the vast majority of meats, fishes, vegetables and fruits. Can be used with almost all different cutting techniques. The 240mm size can suit both experienced home cooks and professionals.