Hozan Tomoe

Hozan Tomoe represents a distinguished collaboration between two respected names in Japanese bladesmithing: Hinoura Hamono and USAMI. This partnership brings together traditional Japanese blacksmith techniques to create kitchen knives that honor centuries-old craftsmanship while serving the needs of modern cooks. Based in Japan, the brand has carved out a niche among enthusiasts seeking authentic kurouchi-finish blades with a focus on performance and traditional aesthetics.

The brand specializes in Japanese kitchen knives crafted from White #2 steel, a carbon steel prized for its exceptional edge retention and ease of sharpening. White #2, also known as Shirogami #2, is favored by traditional Japanese blacksmiths for its purity and ability to achieve razor-sharp edges. Hozan Tomoe's product line particularly emphasizes santoku and petty knife designs, two essential profiles in Japanese culinary tradition. The santoku, a versatile all-purpose knife, and the petty, a smaller utility blade, represent the core of their offerings.

A defining characteristic of Hozan Tomoe knives is their kurouchi finish—a rustic black oxide coating that forms naturally during the forging process. This traditional finish not only provides a distinctive aesthetic but also offers some protection against rust on the upper portions of the blade. The contrast between the polished edge and the dark, textured finish showcases the handcrafted nature of each piece.

The collaboration between Hinoura Hamono and USAMI ensures that each Hozan Tomoe knife benefits from generations of blacksmithing expertise. These knives appeal to cooks who appreciate the character and performance of traditionally forged Japanese cutlery. While the brand maintains a relatively low profile compared to larger manufacturers, their commitment to time-honored techniques and quality materials has earned them recognition among discerning knife enthusiasts seeking authentic Japanese craftsmanship.