Kamata Hakensha knife shop is a real family business, with a history dating back four generations. There are currently two generations of skilled hands behind the grindstone, expertly crafting their own specialty knives, which both perform superbly and please aesthetically. Though most people are drawn to the simple and well-made utensils that improve the kitchen experience, the store’s rare engraved knives provide a more exotic reason to shop there.
Kamata Hakensha has a line of over 800 knives ranging in price from ¥2,500 to ¥180,000. From intricate sakura patterns to the most impressive vegetable knives, they attract customers from all over the world and from all walks of life. The shop offers an in-store service to engrave a name or initials into each knife purchased. This takes about three minutes and makes for an excellent, personalized souvenir.
Kamata Hakensha’s knives are all designed by the owner, crafted with incredible skill and individually edged. Kamata-san has a formidable eye for knives and can find the smallest imperfections within the blade, ensuring his products are of the highest quality, standing out from the competing knife shops found in Asakusa.
The store’s concept centers on functionality. While the knives are beautiful; the real heart is in the quality. Each member of the family learns from the others and from training in an apprenticeship, meaning each generation has new insight into the craft of knife-making. If you visit the store you will probably see Kamata-san sharpening knives in the small glass booth.
Kamata-san himself can guide you through the purchasing experience, advising you on which knife is suited to which purpose. Once you have selected the perfect knife, it will be presented in a box with blade protector to keep it in perfect condition for years to come. However, if you are not so gentle with your knife, don’t fret. The store offers after-care service with which they will sharpen your knife for you to keep it in tip-top condition.
The range of knives offered is astounding, from antique-looking vegetable knives to layered steel which looks like a samurai sword. Those in the know will be aware that Japanese chef’s knives are some of the finest in the world, ideal for slicing maguro and other delicacies. If you want an authentic Japanese cooking experience, look no further than Kamata Hakensha.
