Kaz's new lineup, Beautiful Japanese kitchen knife - Kamo Hamono – Kaz's Knife and Kitchenware

Recently added to our lineup, Kamo Hamono knives are traditional Echizen blades with a rich history. Experience the dependable craftsmanship of artisans who uphold tradition while continuing to innovate.

・What is Kamo Hamono？

Mr. Katsuyasu Kamo, the current head of Kamo Hamono, began working in the family business, Kamo Hamono Seisakusho, in 1956 (Showa 31), engaging in the production of Echizen forged blades. He possesses exceptional skill in forging double-edged kitchen knives, and has demonstrated unique technical expertise particularly in the production of nakiri knives and vegetable harvesting knives.

Among his achievements, the vegetable harvesting knife developed in 1975 (Showa 50) in collaboration with highland vegetable farmers in Nagano Prefecture stands out. Designed for harvesting leafy vegetables such as lettuce, cabbage, and Chinese cabbage, this knife has been widely adopted by farmers throughout Shinshu (Nagano), northern Kanto, Aichi, and other agricultural regions across Japan. Its outstanding sharpness—made possible through the forging techniques of Echizen blades—helped showcase the superior quality of double-edged knives and played a significant role in raising public awareness of Echizen Uchihamono.

・What is Echizen Uchihamono?

In 1337, a swordsmith named Chiyozuru Kuniyasu from Kyoto came to Fuchu (present-day Echizen City) in search of a suitable place to forge swords. While there, he also began making sickles for local farmers, which is considered the origin of Echizen cutlery. To this day, he is revered as the founder of the craft.

As the production of tools such as sickles, vegetable knives, and hatchets for daily use became more widespread, their high quality earned a strong reputation. During the Edo period, under the protectionist policies of the Fukui Domain, areas such as blacksmith districts and merchant quarters were developed, and trade guilds were organized. As a result, the industry grew into an important local enterprise supporting the domain’s economy. It is also said that lacquer tappers involved in Echizen lacquerware helped expand the market by carrying these tools with them on their travels across the country.