Introducing the New Sekisanroku Matsuju Honko Series of Traditional Japanese Knives

KAI Group Unveils the Sekisanroku Matsuju Honko Series

KAI Corporation, a globally recognized manufacturer of knives based in Chiyoda, Tokyo, has announced the release of the Sekisanroku Matsuju Honko series on May 25, 2026. This new collection of five traditional Japanese steel knives aims to bring the art of Japanese cooking to a broader audience, making these high-quality tools accessible for everyday culinary tasks.

A Legacy of Excellence

The Sekisanroku brand has a rich heritage, with over 40 years in the industry dedicated to craftsmanship and sharpness in kitchen tools. The brand offers more than 1,200 different products, all designed to enhance the cooking experience. The knives in this series draw upon the longstanding traditions of swordsmithing from the Mino region, particularly from Sekigahara in Gifu Prefecture, where the craft has been practiced since the Kamakura Period.

As interest in Japanese cuisine grows among international visitors and across the globe, the demand for authentic Japanese knives has surged, leading to the creation of this new series. The Matsuju Honko line promises to deliver the superb cutting performance and user-friendly experience that characterize traditional Japanese knives.

Product Lineup

The Matsuju Honko series features a versatile lineup designed for both everyday use and specialized cooking. The five knives available include:
1. Matsuju Honko Small Deba (105mm) - Priced at ¥13,200, this small-sized knife is ideal for filleting small fish like sardines and is perfect for delicate preparation tasks.
2. Matsuju Honko Deba (150mm) - At ¥16,500, this standard-size knife is user-friendly and suitable for preparing small to medium fish.
3. Matsuju Honko Deba (180mm) - Priced at ¥22,000, this knife offers robust performance for handling medium-sized fish, featuring enhanced durability and rigidity.
4. Matsuju Honko Sashimi (210mm) - This knife, available for ¥16,500, excels in producing beautifully smooth cuts thanks to its design tailored for sashimi purposes, suitable for home cooks and semi-professionals.
5. Matsuju Honko Sashimi (240mm) - Priced at ¥19,800, this higher-end model delivers outstanding results for sashimi preparation, adept at achieving perfection in a single motion, catering to professional needs.

Innovative Features

The Matsuju Honko knives are designed with innovative features to enhance cutting performance:

- High Carbon Composite Steel: The blades are crafted by combining high carbon steel with soft iron, providing exceptional sharpness and ease of sharpening.
- Wet-style Honing: Utilizing high-grit whetstones for precision sharpening minimizes the risk of heat damage during maintenance.
- Back Hollowing: The design allows the edge to remain thin and sharp, facilitating efficient sharpening without excessive material removal.

The Essence of Sekisanroku

The name Sekisanroku originates from the craftsmanship of the 27th generation swordsmith Kanemoto Kaneko, symbolizing a dedication to the traditional sword-making art of the Sekigahara region. The meticulous craftsmanship goes back generations, with the Sekisanroku knives being celebrated as some of the finest in the world of culinary tools. KAI Group continues to honor this legacy, ensuring the cutting excellence and heritage of Sekisanroku knives are upheld.

About KAI Corporation

Founded in 1908 in Gifu Prefecture, KAI Corporation has grown into a global manufacturer of high-quality cutting tools, including razors and kitchen utensils. The company has developed a diverse product range exceeding 10,000 items, focusing on tools essential for daily living. From design and manufacturing to sales and logistics, KAI oversees the entire production process, ensuring top-notch quality in every product. Headquartered in 3-9-5 Iwamotocho, Chiyoda, Tokyo, the company seeks to enrich kitchen experiences worldwide.

For more details about the Sekisanroku Matsuju Honko series or to make inquiries, customers can reach out to KAI Corporation’s customer service at 0120-016-410 or visit the official website at KAI Group.