Nagao Kanekoma Factory

Nagao Kanekoma Manufacturing Co., Ltd. Higonokami Knife

Nagao Kanekoma Factory Mfg., Co., Ltd.

Higonokami Knives by Nagao Kanekoma Factory

Around 1894, a hardware wholesaler named Taizaburo Shigematsu brought a knife back from Kagoshima, Kyushu, and then improved upon the product. It first gained popularity in the Kumamoto area of Kyushu and was named the Higonokami knife. It quickly became a nationwide hit.
At its peak, there were 40 registered manufacturers in Miki City, making it a major industry. However, the demand declined over time as market needs changed. Recently, a resurgence has brought global attention to these knives. Currently, Nagao Kanekoma Factory is the only company authorized to use the registered trademark Higonokami. As such, they are committed to preserving this tradition and strive daily to pass it on to future generations.