u/GravelBicyclist

A highlight of my post-graduation trip to Japan. I’m incredibly grateful to have been able to acquire one of Takada-san's knives before the recent changes to sales from the shop. I had dreamed of visiting for years before and during school, so the timing truly could not have worked out better. On that cold February morning before the shop had opened, I met someone who became a lifelong friend as well.

I hope to visit again soon, regardless of whether knife sales from the workshop resume. Takada-san is humble, genuine, and a true class act. I was honestly nervous walking in, but he treated me with so much kindness and respect.

I especially love the Hanabi finish on this knife. Takada-san was kind enough to show me his process in getting the fireworks on the blade. The experience meant so much to me that I’ve since commissioned a painting of the knife alongside my two cats which I am eagerly waiting for! 

A few months ago in Sakai, I met Balazs and we immediately bonded over our shared love of Japanese Knives. Though he obviously knew much more than me, he was very kind and we had some great discussions. We walked around different shops together, and he helped me pick out a few knives that meshed well with what I already had in my collection. 

Fast forward to last week, I happened to be in Brisbane where he owns a shop! After enjoying some Aussie beers down the street, I made my way over to his store. There were already a few people in there, and though they appeared to be more casual customers, Balazs had about a dozen knives laid out for them, and meticulously went over the pros and cons of each as if they were longtime knife enthusiasts. After they selected a knife, he then had them pick out a handle free of charge, and then installed it right then and there. The customers seemed very happy, it was heartwarming to see! 

After the customers left, we reminisced over our time in Sakai. Balazs then asked me if I’d ever heard of Kyohei Shindo, which, admittedly, I had not. Of course I was hooked and selected a Santoku as my collection is full of gyutos and sujis at the moment. From my understanding, he listed 3 Shindo gyutos later on his website which, understandably sold out right away. We then selected a handle that I think goes perfectly with it, and he sharpened it for me before packing it up. 

Honestly, this was a top knife shopping experience for me. I fully recommend checking out Japanese Knife Studio if you haven’t already. Balazs is truly a class act!

It’s very surreal to have this knife back home with me in the States. I will be using it to make soup tonight!