SEKI KANETSUNE

Kitasho's history began in earnest with the establishment of its predecessor "Kitamura Sho Shoten" in 1948 — built on the foundation of blade manufacturing and wholesale experience continuing from before the war. While handling products from local manufacturers in Seki City — the blade town — the company expanded its unique planning and sales network.

In 1964, the company was incorporated as Kitasho Co., Ltd., opening the Tokyo Sales Office (Toshima-ku) and Niigata Sales Office (Sanjo City). While collaborating with hardware and blade hub areas beyond Seki City, the company built a nationwide distribution system. Currently, the company develops its business at three bases — headquarters, Tokyo, and Niigata — supporting diverse blade needs.

On the other hand, the company also worked on the development of its in-house brand "Seki Kanetsune (SEKI KANETSUNE)" from early on — developing diverse series targeting professionals and general users, including kitchen knives and outdoor knives. Using steel materials such as Aogami No.2, VG10, and Damascus multi-layer steel — the brand combines blades leveraging Seki artisan techniques with designs satisfying both practicality and ownership pride.

From 2005 onward, the company has also strengthened overseas expansion — SEKI KANETSUNE brand products are exported to countries worldwide centered on Europe and the Americas. Through hometown tax return items and crowdfunding, the company also expands touchpoints with new user segments. While combining its role as a comprehensive blade trader with the planning power of its in-house brand, the company continues to deliver blades it can be proud of worldwide.

"Comprehensive blade trading" walking alongside Seki's traditional blades

Kitasho was founded shortly after the war in 1948 as its predecessor "Kitamura Sho Shoten," and was incorporated as Kitasho Co., Ltd. in 1964. Based in Seki City, Gifu Prefecture — the blade production area — it has grown as a wholesaler handling all blades including knives, scissors, knives, nail clippers, and kitchen hardware. Combining local manufacturer products and in-house planned items, the company communicates the appeal of "Seki blades" to Japan and abroad.

Planning and development of the in-house brand "Seki Kanetsune (SEKI KANETSUNE)"

In addition to its role as a wholesale trader, Kitasho also focuses on planning and developing its in-house brand "Seki Kanetsune (SEKI KANETSUNE)." The brand develops diverse lineups — kitchen knives, outdoor knives, Japanese and Western knives, and nail clippers. From steel material selection to design to functionality — based on long-cultivated discernment and on-site voices — the company produces "blades that cut well and can be loved for a long time."

Connecting Seki's blade making — continuing for 800 years — to the next generation

Seki City has developed as a sword production area for about 800 years since the Kamakura period. Blades supported by that accumulated technology are now known worldwide as the "Seki City" brand. Kitasho considers it its mission to work on production fusing traditional technology with new sensibility together with local blade manufacturers and artisans — connecting Seki's blade culture to the next generation.

A rich selection handling diverse brands in Japan and abroad

In addition to its in-house brand "Seki Kanetsune," the company also handles many products from leading manufacturers in Japan and abroad — Masahiro, Misono, Kai, G.SAKAI, Moki, and more. The lineup is rich — knives of course, plus kitchen tools, gardening scissors, beauty products, and items for enthusiasts such as imitation swords and iai swords. Through wholesale and the online store "Kanetsune Select," the company delivers to users nationwide.