I have always believed that a good knife is more than a tool; it is a story of the person who made it and the one who uses it.
My name is Rene, and I am a Dutch enthusiast of Japanese craftsmanship who feels surprisingly at home in Japan. My first trips were simply driven by my love for Japanese knives and the culture behind them, but over time, places like Sanjo in Niigata, and the quiet rural areas have become very special to me.
Whenever I visit Japan, I spend most of my days meeting blacksmiths, learning new techniques, and working with partners on future knife projects. When I am not doing that, I am usually exploring good restaurants or enjoying hikes. I also have a deep love for Japanese food and everything connected to traditional craftsmanship.
Through Deep Japan, I hope to help travelers understand the world of Japanese knives, share what I have learned over the years, and inspire people to appreciate the makers who keep these traditions alive.
“A good knife sparks joy in the kitchen. Whether shaped by a Japanese master or made for a modest budget, Kazoku creates tools that help every cook enjoy their craft.”
The Netherlands
