Exciting New Knife Releases from Hashimoto Kanzo Series
In an exciting partnership, Kai Corporation, a global blade manufacturer headquartered in Chiyoda, Tokyo, and the acclaimed Michelin-starred Japanese restaurant "Ichirin," led by Chef Kanzo Hashimoto, are set to launch two new knives as part of the "Hashimoto Kanzo" series. The knives will be available for purchase on May 25, 2026, through their official online store, specialized retailers, home improvement centers, and supermarkets across Japan.
The Hashimoto Kanzo series has garnered significant acclaim from customers, and the new releases include the "Hashimoto Kanzo Double-Edged Knife for Sashimi (8.5 inches)" and the "Hashimoto Kanzo Double-Edged Vegetable Knife (5.5 inches)." These knives are designed to enhance the home cooking experience, allowing both novice and seasoned cooks to enjoy creating Japanese dishes with ease and precision.
The development of the "Hashimoto Kanzo" series was fueled by Chef Hashimoto's passion for making the joy of cooking accessible to everyone through high-quality kitchen tools. His vision aligns perfectly with Kai Corporation’s commitment to crafting user-friendly and high-performance knives, a mission they have pursued for over a century. After two years of development, the collaboration has resulted in knives that cater to the intricate needs of Japanese cuisine.
One of the standout features of these new additions is the placement of the knife's center of gravity towards the blade, which allows cooks to take advantage of the knife's weight for more precise cuts. This design is particularly beneficial for tasks requiring detailed work, such as garnishing and intricate food decoration. Chef Hashimoto personally tested numerous prototypes, meticulously refining the balance and ergonomics through hands-on cooking experiences.
Product Overview
1.
Hashimoto Kanzo Double-Edged Knife for Sashimi (8.5 inches)
Price: ¥25,300 (tax included)
This versatile knife is perfect for not just slicing sashimi but also for cutting rolls in one seamless motion. The 255 mm blade length makes it ideal for handling large ingredients, catering especially to overseas customers who often work with big cuts of meat or fish.
2.
Hashimoto Kanzo Double-Edged Vegetable Knife (5.5 inches)
Price: ¥19,800 (tax included)
With its curved blade design, this knife excels at chopping vegetables with precision, be it slicing scallions or dicing carrots. Its sturdy construction allows for easy cutting through tough vegetables like pumpkins, making it a practical choice for home kitchens, especially those with limited space.
Existing Products in the Hashimoto Kanzo Series
- - Hashimoto Kanzo Double-Edged Peeler
Price: ¥14,300 (tax included)
- - Hashimoto Kanzo Double-Edged Knife (5 inches)
Price: ¥16,500 (tax included)
- - Hashimoto Kanzo Double-Edged Knife (7 inches)
Price: ¥22,000 (tax included)
- - Hashimoto Kanzo Double-Edged Knife (Single Bevel)
Price: ¥27,500 (tax included)
- - Hashimoto Kanzo Double-Edged Knife for Sashimi
Price: ¥22,000 (tax included)
About Chef Kanzo Hashimoto
Chef Kanzo Hashimoto is the owner of the Michelin-starred "Ichirin" restaurant, located in Kagurazaka, Tokyo. Born in Kyoto in 1970, Chef Hashimoto began his culinary journey at the age of 18. After working as the head chef in a traditional Kyoto restaurant in Akasaka, he established his own restaurant in 2007, earning a Michelin star in 2009, which was upgraded to two stars in 2012. Today, he continues to excel in the culinary scene, participating in media features, product development, and local ingredient branding while maintaining strong ties with producers by traveling across Japan.
About Kai Corporation
Established in 1908 in Seki City, Gifu Prefecture—famous for its knife-making history—Kai Corporation has developed a wide range of over 10,000 items, including grooming tools like razors and nail clippers, kitchen knives, and healthcare blades. The company manages all processes from product planning and development to production and distribution, ensuring quality and innovation at every step.
Head Office: 3-9-5 Iwamoto-cho, Chiyoda, Tokyo 101-8586
CEO: Hiroaki Endo
Official Website
For inquiries, please contact:
Kai Corporation Customer Service
3-9-5 Iwamoto-cho, Chiyoda, Tokyo 101-8586
TEL: 0120-016-410 (Free access)
Customer Inquiry Website