Kawasaki Kajiya is a small, family-run blacksmith shop with a proud history spanning more than 100 years. Based in the town of Shiroishi-cho in Saga Prefecture, Kyushu, their very name “Kajiya” simply means “blacksmith” in Japanese. Now in its third generation, the workshop is led by Mr. Kawasaki, who continues the tradition alongside his nephew, Mr. Mizokami, the fourth generation of skilled artisans. Together, they carry forward the legacy of handcrafting fine Japanese blades with the same dedication and care that has defined their family for over a century.
Blacksmith: Kawasaki san
Location: Shiroishi-cho in Saga-prefecture, Japan
Construction: Hammer Forged, San Mai
Edge Steel: Hitachi Blue #2 Carbon Steel
Cladding: Iron
Finish: Kurouchi
Edge Grind: Even
Handle: Walnut Octagonal
Ferrule: Black Plastic
Weight: 3.1 oz (88 g)
Blade Length: 143 mm
Total Length: 267 mm
Spine Thickness at Base: 2.5 mm
Blade Height: 38 mm
Reviews
1 review(s) WRITE A REVIEW (Reviews are subject to approval) Another winner, April 11, 2026Posted By: Colleen
Bought this thinking it would just be a fill in knife and boy am I impressed by what it can do! Was able to trim the fat off a pork chop with ease, do some paper thin tip slices and cut up carrots like they were butter. I am a big fan of Blue #1 and #2 steels and would rate this smith among the top blue steel makers I own, including Matsubara and Y.Tanaka. Can't wait to try the other knives by this maker. Thanks Mark and Sue!
Bought this thinking it would just be a fill in knife and boy am I impressed by what it can do! Was able to trim the fat off a pork chop with ease, do some paper thin tip slices and cut up carrots like they were butter. I am a big fan of Blue #1 and #2 steels and would rate this smith among the top blue steel makers I own, including Matsubara and Y.Tanaka. Can't wait to try the other knives by this maker. Thanks Mark and Sue!
