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About Us
Why Are Japanese Knives Counted as “Ittcho”?
Culture and Craftsmanship in Every Blade
In Japan, kitchen knives are not counted as “一本 (ippon, one piece)” but as “一丁 (ittcho, one unit).” This way of counting reflects the Japanese sensibility of treating blades as more than just tools. In this article, I’ll share the origin and meaning of “ittcho,” the cultural background passed down from swordsmiths to cooking, and the spirit embedded in every Japanese knife we craft at TERUYASU FUJIWARA EDGED TOOL CRAFT.
Table of Contents
The Origin and Meaning of “Ittcho”
In Japanese, different objects have their own unique counters. For example, tatami mats are counted as “ichijo,” and sake cups as “ikkou.” In the same way, knives are counted as “ittcho.” The character “丁” carries meanings such as “straight and orderly” and “well-finished,” making it a fitting counter for finely forged blades.
So “ittcho” is not just about quantity—it is a word that conveys respect and value for each individual knife. At TERUYASU FUJIWARA EDGED TOOL CRAFT, we honor this tradition and always refer to our knives as “ittcho.”
From Swordsmithing to the Kitchen: A Cultural Legacy
Samurai once took great pride in their swords, which were counted as “一振り (one swing).” In contrast, kitchen knives—tools that support everyday life—came to be counted as “ittcho.” Though the words differ, what they share is a deep respect for blades as vessels of spirit, not just pieces of metal.
Founded in 1870, TERUYASU FUJIWARA EDGED TOOL CRAFT has carried on this swordsmithing spirit for over 150 years. Even today, in our workshop filled with the sound of fire and hammering steel, we forge knives that serve in the world of cooking.
The Soul of the Craftsman in Every Japanese Knife
Each knife holds within it the craftsman’s skill and experience, from material selection and forging to heat treatment and sharpening. The term “ittcho” symbolizes that dedication.
For example, our signature Denka no Hoto (Denka, "Treasured Sword") uses Super Blue steel as its core, clad in stainless steel for durability and rust resistance, while offering astonishing sharpness. Our Maboroshi no Meito (Maboroshi, "Illusory Sword") features White #1 steel at its core, achieving even more delicate cutting performance. Both embody the spirit of ittcho nyukon (crafting with one’s whole soul), elevating cooking into an art form.
The “Ittcho Nyukon” Philosophy at TERUYASU FUJIWARA EDGED TOOL CRAFT
At TERUYASU FUJIWARA EDGED TOOL CRAFT, each knife is forged by hand, one by one. To us, a knife is not just a product—it is an “ittcho,” a piece of culture carried forward.
We also support our customers long after purchase, offering re-sharpening and handle replacement so each knife can be used for decades. To feel the spirit infused in every blade is to experience the very essence of Japanese knife culture.
Conclusion
Counting knives as “ittcho” is not just a play on words—it reflects the respect and cultural value that Japanese people have long placed on blades. By understanding this background, you can appreciate the special worth of Japanese knives on a deeper level.
At TERUYASU FUJIWARA EDGED TOOL CRAFT, we continue to craft knives with the
spirit of ittcho nyukon, carrying on a tradition over 150 years strong.
Please visit our official website （https://www.teruyasu.net/）to find
your very own ittcho.
This is Miho from Fujiwara Teruyasu Blade Craftsmanship Customer Support.
FAQ
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Why are knives counted as “ittcho” instead of “ippon”?The character “丁” means “something straight and well-finished,” making it a fitting counter for finely forged blades. It’s not just about quantity—it expresses the value and respect embedded in each knife.
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Is there a difference in how Japanese swords are counted?Yes. Japanese swords are counted as “一振り (one swing),” while kitchen knives are counted as “一丁 (one unit).” The words differ, but both reflect a shared respect for blades as vessels of spirit.
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What meaning does the word “ittcho” carry?It signifies that each knife embodies the craftsman’s soul. For example, the Denka and the Maboroshi are both forged with ittcho nyukon (一丁入魂)—wholehearted dedication—elevating cooking into art.
