Beyond the Blade: Japanese Knife Craftsmanship

Kentaro Hoshiba is a fourth generation blacksmith whose family has been supporting fishing and farming villages in Noto, Ishikawa, Japan since the Meiji period by polishing and selling knives. Their company Fukube Kaji Corp. began in 1901 as traveling knife peddlers, selling and maintaining the vital everyday tools of housewives, farmers, and fishermen. Today they keep the tradition of knife polishing services alive through "Pochisupa," their unique mail-in knife sharpening service, now with the help of online shipping. They are also currently working to expand business to the U.S. and launch their own knives, the Shinbu and Tafu.

Fukube Kaji and other companies are supported by Bunkei Corp., a consulting firm that aims to continue the culture of traditional Japanese craftsmanship into the 22nd century by providing guidance and resources to aid the transition into the modern age.

Our speakers will not only teach us about the precise art of Japanese knife making, but will also share about their traditions, companies, and current activities in Japan.

This is a free hour-long presentation with Q&A hosted on Zoom.