Our in-depth range review

First Impressions


Elegant workhorses, the Sanpou has a little of everything - an excellent flat grind and profile, stunning looks and finish and with the White #2 core a durable and easy to sharpen carbon steel ready to work in any kitchen.

Beauty

In our opinon, the Sanpou is a absolutely stunning knife. The kasumi finish on the core steel and misty soft iron cladding are subtle but create a lovely contrast and as the core steel develops a patina over time will only become more striking visually. 

Combined with a simple but classy single piece octagonal wenge wood handle it compliments the blades perfectly. 

In Hand


The hazy cladding finish combined with a very well made and smooth heel make the gyuto particularly comfortable in a pinch grip while the balance point and octagonal handles on the other knives in the range balance out the knives nicely.

Durability

At 62-63HRC, the Shirogami #2 core offers a good balance between robustness and easy sharpening as the steel and with soft iron cladding is a classic tried and tested Japanese knife construction choice.

Ease of Care & Maintenance Tips

It's a reactive core steel so will develop a patina over time but simple care and maintenance of rinse and dry after use and you'll have no problems. 

We recommend using our carbon steel care kit to keep the knife in top condition.

Our Verdict

Immensely classy knives from Sakai Takyuki, the Sanpou has it all at a very competitive price point where there are plenty of impressive knives. 

Ideally suited to those seeking a workhorse profile in a gyuto or a relatively thick and tapered spine in the range we're definitely enjoying these and know you will too. 

Meet the maker

Sakai Takayuki

Sakai Takayuki is one of Japan’s most respected knife makers, with roots that trace back over 600 years to the city of Sakai - a region long celebrated for its mastery of blade-making. Originally renowned for producing samurai swords and precision tobacco-cutting tools during the Edo period, Sakai’s craftsmen evolved their skills into the world of kitchen knives as Japan modernised.

Today, Sakai Takayuki operates under Aoki Hamono Seisakusho and represents the collective expertise of dozens of traditional blacksmiths and sharpeners, each specialising in distinct techniques. Their extensive range spans from handcrafted carbon-steel blades forged using age-old methods to high-performance stainless and Damascus series designed for professional chefs.

Every knife reflects the hallmark Sakai combination of exceptional balance, keen edge retention, and refined aesthetics - a seamless blend of centuries-old craftsmanship and contemporary innovation.

View all Sakai Takayuki products