Shu Matsubara

Shu Matsubara represents four generations of blacksmithing excellence in Nagasaki, Japan, where ancient forging traditions meet modern kitchen knife craftsmanship. Operating from a region with deep metalworking roots, this family-run workshop continues to honor 800-year-old Japanese blacksmithing techniques while creating distinctive kitchen knives that stand out in both form and function.

The brand specializes in handmade Japanese kitchen knives characterized by their notably tall blade profiles, particularly evident in their nakiri and kiri cleaver designs. This unique approach to blade geometry provides increased knuckle clearance and enhanced cutting efficiency, making them particularly appealing to professional chefs and serious home cooks. Each knife is hand-forged using premium high-carbon steels, with Blue Steel #2 and Ginsan steels selected specifically for their superior edge retention and sharpening characteristics.

Shu Matsubara knives embrace a deliberately rustic aesthetic that celebrates the hand-forged nature of each piece. The nashiji (pear skin) and other traditional finishes showcase the hammer marks and forge work that distinguish genuine artisan craftsmanship from mass production. Despite their robust appearance, these knives feature remarkably thin cutting edges that glide through ingredients with minimal resistance, balancing traditional forging methods with practical kitchen performance.

The brand's commitment to time-honored techniques means each knife receives individual attention throughout the forging process. From initial steel selection through final sharpening, Matsubara maintains the exacting standards passed down through generations of blacksmiths. Their bunka, nakiri, and cleaver designs have gained recognition among knife enthusiasts who appreciate the intersection of traditional Japanese craftsmanship and functional kitchen tools.

For cooks seeking authentic Japanese cutlery with distinctive character and proven performance, Shu Matsubara offers knives that honor centuries of metalworking heritage while delivering the edge quality and durability demanded by modern kitchens.