Interview with Abe Isamitsu
Abe Isamitsu
Born in Paris in 1979, this passionate craftsman devoted 15 years of his life to training as a blacksmith of Japanese kitchen knives. With the expertise he acquired over the years, he took the plunge and opened his own business in 2022, in the picturesque town of Sakuragawa, located in Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan.
Driven by a relentless pursuit of perfection, he and his team strive every day to craft what he considers the ultimate in Japanese knives. Their dedication to this art and their constant pursuit of excellence are reflected in each of their blades, embodying the very essence of their work.
Craftsmen reflect on their past experiences, constantly seeking to improve and perfect their techniques. Their goal is to consistently deliver higher-quality knives and maintain a consistent level of excellence. They hope that their apprentices, in turn, will surpass their mentors and push the boundaries of the art of cutlery.
The motto of the forge
“We continue to doubt ourselves.
We continue to pass our failures on to future generations.
We continue to hope that those who follow us will surpass us."
Holding a knife forged by these artisans in your hands is an experience that deeply touches the heart. Each blade bears the very essence of their dedication and craftsmanship. It is an encounter with the soul of Japanese tradition and excellence.
