The family-owned business Kanehiro, established in 1948, is now in its third generation. Hiroshi Kato served as the second master blacksmith and knife maker in the family. He was taught the high craft of knife forging by his father, Kintaro Kato. After nearly 60 years, Hiroshi Kato now mostly rests his forging hammer. Fortunately, his son Yoshimi Kato has been continuing the family tradition for some time and leads the company into the third generation after extensive training. In Yoshimi Kato's craftsmanship, tradition and aesthetics merge seamlessly. While mastering the timeless art of forging, he harmonizes it with innovative handle designs made from selected woods. The result: Hand-forged knife series with unmistakable design and holistic beauty. Kanehiro's manufacturing has been awarded multiple times.
In 1980, Kintaro Kato was certified as a traditional craftsman, a prestigious recognition of his exceptional craftsmanship. In 1990, Kanehiro received an Excellence Award in Fukui Prefecture. In 2008, Hiroshi Kato became the second knife smith to receive the traditional craftsman certification.
Each item is a uniquely handcrafted masterpiece.
