Becoming a 'Lifelong Companion': Culinary Expert Sakura Launches Permanent Knife Sharpening Service by Seki City Artisans

SAKURA's, a brand by culinary expert Sakura (HITOTEMA Co., Ltd.), has introduced a permanent sharpening service for its 'Just-Right Kitchen Knife' home series, featuring professional restoration by artisans in Seki City, Gifu. This after-sales service aims to move beyond a 'sell-and-forget' approach, helping customers use their knives comfortably for as long as possible.

■ Kitchen Knives as Tools to be Sharpened

Kitchen knives lose their sharpness over time with daily use. Many common cooking frustrations—such as crushing tomato skins, watery eyes from onions, or struggling to slice chicken skin—are actually caused by a dull blade. While household sharpeners have their limits, expert craftsmanship can restore the blade to a condition nearly identical to its original factory state. Knives are tools that truly perform when maintained through professional sharpening.

Developed over two years with a focus on weight and edge, the 'Just-Right Kitchen Knife' deserves to be kept in prime condition. Consequently, the company has established this sharpening service as a permanent offering, not just a temporary campaign, with master artisans in Seki City handling each knife by hand.

■ Easy, Mail-In Process

Traditional sharpening often involves the hassle of finding a specialist store. This service is designed to eliminate that friction. After signing up, HITOTEMA sends a 'Sharpening Kit' (including a pre-labeled envelope, protective materials, and a paper sleeve). Customers simply pack their knife and drop it in a mailbox. The refurbished knife is then returned directly to the customer.

- Sharpening (Double-bevel edge/point restoration): 3,000 yen (incl. tax, shipping, and materials).
- Large chip repair (>2mm): From 5,000 yen.
- Handle (Walnut) replacement: From 6,000 yen.
- Estimated turnaround: Approx. 2-3 weeks from shipment (varies by season).

Minor chips (up to approx. 1mm) and slight edge bends are covered within the base fee. No work requiring additional charges is performed without customer approval.

■ Covering Purchases from Rakuten and Amazon

While exclusive to the 'Just-Right Kitchen Knife 155mm,' the service covers products purchased not only through the SAKURA's online store but also via Rakuten and Amazon. Regardless of where it was bought, every knife can receive this professional maintenance.

As a brand dedicated to 'making cooking simple,' maintaining tools comfortably is a key factor in lowering barriers to cooking. By choosing to sharpen and continue using a knife rather than replacing it, customers can experience the joy of a lifelong companion tool.