Mizuno Tanrenjo — Attraction in Sakai

When looking for a knife, I felt like going straight to where the knife was forged gave it more meaning. When I walked in, I was greeted by the blacksmith, and he showed me a variety of knives to pick from. He helped me pick a knife and then I got a tour of the shop. If you’re looking for a knife with character and a shop that does it all, then you’ve found the right place. Also, this workshop has more than 150 years of history and is very prestigious which adds some pedigree to the fine knives...

Absolutely worth the visit. This came highly recommended from a chef friend of mine. If you’re even remotely interested in craftsmanship, do yourself a favor and stop by. Mizuno Tanrenjo is a 5th-generation blacksmith doing truly incredible work — the kind of skill and dedication you rarely get to witness up close. Just being there and seeing the shop is rewarding, and having the opportunity to purchase a knife directly from him makes it all the more special. Couldn’t...

Great experience overall here! Highly recommend if you are looking for small batch hand made knives made traditionally. I was first shown the blacksmith area and then it was explained to me how the knives were made. Super cool seeing the forge and talking to the blacksmith and understanding his story and generations before him, the blacksmith also makes japanese swords so that is a plus. Got a cool...