14 Best Japanese Hand Tools Brands 2023

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Looking for the best Japanese hand tools? Check it out here with details of features and characteristics.

Carpentry, woodwork, and gardening are very strenuous jobs and require a lot of physical strength and technique to pull off decently.

 It is obviously dependent on the skills of the craftsmen, but no artisan can be called skilled without the proper tools and the means to use them. 

People mainly prefer hand tools for various works. I too prefer hand tools. There are so many ones available in the market, but I think Japanese hand tools are the best. 

When it comes to Japan-made hand tools, you do not have to worry about the quality. Everything is done with the perfect measurement by the Japanese.

Related: Check out the best Japanese toilet seat for a good washroom experience!

Japanese hand tools are unique from other hand tools. Japan has been bringing to us quality hand tools for almost 30 years now, which vouches for its quality. Japanese hand tools are extremely different from the ones found in western countries. 

If you had to choose any hand tool, I would recommend you choose the one that is Made in Japan. So today, I have brought to you the best Japanese hand tools that you must definitely check out. 

Now there are a lot of options available in the market with different types of blades and attachments that make the job easier. Japanese online tool shopping for best Japanese hand tools can be fun

Here are some of the best Japanese hand tools that I think might be the ones you need.

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Best Japanese Hand Tools: Summary

Best Japanese Hand Tools	Item Inches	Weight
SUIZAN Japanese Pull Saw Hand Saw	24.7 x 1.3 x 4.5 inches	0.35 Pounds
9” Shinto Saw Rasp	14.05 x 2.8 x 1.2 inches	0.44 Pounds
Japanese Weeding Sickle Very Sharp Edge Quick Work	13.58 x 5.63 x 2.76 inches	7 ounces
Nisaku NJP650 Hori-Hori Weeding & Digging Knife	13 x 2.8 x 1.5 inches	6.4 ounces
WEICHUAN 5” Unfinished Beech Wood Mallet	14.92 x 6.38 x 3.74 inches	8.8 ounces
BlueArrowExpress Kana Hoe 217	10.5 x 5 x 2 inches	5.6 ounces
Nisakuu NJP1820 Scaper Weeder & Multitoool	8 x 3.25 x 1 inches	3.2 ounces
Nisakuu by SunJoe NJP555 Handheld Claw Rake	10 x 4.5 x 4.5 inches	13.1 ounces

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Top Japanese Hand Tool Brands

HiKOKI

HiKOKI, formerly known as Hitachi Power Tools, is a renowned Japanese brand in the power tool industry. With a strong reputation for quality and innovation, HiKOKI has established itself as a trusted choice for professionals and do-it-yourself enthusiasts alike.

One of the standout features of HiKOKI power tools is their reliability. The brand is known for producing durable tools that can withstand demanding job site conditions. 

Whether you’re drilling, sawing, or grinding, HiKOKI tools are designed to deliver consistent performance and longevity.

In terms of innovation, HiKOKI has consistently pushed the boundaries of power tool technology. They have introduced several advancements, such as brushless motors, intelligent power management systems, and ergonomic designs. 

These innovations enhance efficiency, power, and user comfort, ultimately improving the overall user experience.

HiKOKI’s product range is extensive, covering a wide array of tools for various applications. 

From cordless drills and impact drivers to miter saws and angle grinders, HiKOKI offers a comprehensive selection to meet the diverse needs of professionals and hobbyists. 

The brand caters to different power requirements and provides versatile tool options to tackle specific tasks effectively.

Another aspect that sets HiKOKI apart is its commitment to safety. The brand emphasizes incorporating safety features in its tools to protect users during operation. 

These safety measures include features like electric brakes, soft start functions, and sturdy guards, which contribute to a safer working environment.

HiKOKI also prioritizes user convenience and ergonomics. Their tools are designed with user-friendly features such as comfortable grips, adjustable handles, and efficient dust collection systems. 

These considerations make the tools more comfortable to use, minimizing user fatigue and maximizing productivity.

While HiKOKI power tools are known for their quality, it’s worth noting that they may come with a higher price tag compared to some competitors. However, the investment is often justified by the durability, performance, and advanced features offered by HiKOKI tools.

Key Features

• Reliability and durability for demanding job site conditions.
• Innovative technologies like brushless motors and intelligent power management systems.
• Extensive range of tools for various applications.
• Emphasis on safety with features like electric brakes and soft start functions.
• User-friendly designs with comfortable grips and adjustable handles.
• Efficient dust collection systems for cleaner workspaces.
• Commitment to ergonomic design for reduced user fatigue.
• High-performance tools that deliver consistent power and performance.
• Reputation for quality and longevity.
• Trusted choice among professionals and DIY enthusiasts.

Nepros

Nepros is a well-respected Japanese brand specializing in the production of high-quality hand tools. 

With a focus on precision, craftsmanship, and durability, Nepros has gained recognition among professionals and enthusiasts for their exceptional tools.

One of the standout features of Nepros hand tools is their superior build quality. The brand’s commitment to craftsmanship ensures that each tool is meticulously crafted with attention to detail. 

The materials used are of the highest standards, resulting in tools that are reliable, sturdy, and capable of withstanding rigorous use.

Nepros places a strong emphasis on precision, which is crucial in the realm of hand tools. Their tools are engineered with precision in mind, enabling users to perform delicate tasks with accuracy and confidence. 

Whether it’s wrenches, sockets, pliers, or screwdrivers, Nepros tools are designed to provide a seamless user experience and precise results.

Durability is another key aspect of Nepros hand tools. The brand understands the demands of professional work environments and ensures that their tools can withstand heavy usage over an extended period. 

The use of robust materials, coupled with rigorous quality control measures, contributes to the longevity of Nepros tools.

Ergonomics and user comfort are also taken into consideration in the design of Nepros tools. The brand understands that prolonged use of hand tools can lead to fatigue, and therefore, incorporates ergonomic features such as comfortable grips and well-balanced designs. 

These considerations enhance user comfort, reduce strain, and promote better productivity.

Nepros offers a diverse range of hand tools, catering to various industries and applications. Their product lineup includes a comprehensive selection of wrenches, sockets, ratchets, pliers, screwdrivers, and more. 

This wide range allows professionals to find the right tool for their specific needs, ensuring optimal performance in every task.

While Nepros hand tools are known for their quality and precision, it’s important to note that they might come at a higher price point compared to some other brands. 

However, the investment in Nepros tools is often justified by their exceptional performance, durability, and long-term value.

In summary, Nepros is a highly regarded Japanese brand known for its exceptional hand tools. With a focus on precision, craftsmanship, durability, and user comfort, Nepros offers a range of tools that meet the demands of professionals across various industries. 

If you’re seeking top-quality hand tools that deliver precision and durability, Nepros is a brand worth considering.

Key Features

• Superior build quality and craftsmanship.
• Precision engineering for accurate and reliable performance.
• Durability to withstand heavy usage over time.
• Ergonomic designs for user comfort and reduced fatigue.
• Wide range of tools catering to various industries and applications.
• Meticulous attention to detail in the manufacturing process.
• High-quality materials for long-lasting performance.
• Well-balanced designs for improved handling and control.
• Trusted brand among professionals and enthusiasts.
• Commitment to precision, durability, and user satisfaction.

Toyo Co., Ltd

Toyo Co., Ltd is a well-established Japanese hand tools brand that has been providing quality tools for various industries and applications.

With a focus on precision, durability, and innovation, Toyo has built a strong reputation among professionals and enthusiasts alike.

One of the standout features of Toyo hand tools is their commitment to precision. 

The brand understands the importance of accuracy in various tasks, and their tools are meticulously designed and manufactured to deliver precise results. 

From cutting tools to measuring instruments, Toyo tools are known for their reliable performance and precise craftsmanship.

Durability is another key aspect of Toyo hand tools. 

The brand uses high-quality materials and implements stringent quality control measures to ensure that their tools can withstand demanding work environments. 

Whether it’s wrenches, pliers, or screwdrivers, Toyo tools are built to last, offering users long-term reliability and value.

Toyo also emphasizes innovation in their tool designs. 

The brand continuously strives to introduce new technologies and features that enhance usability and productivity. From ergonomic handles for comfortable grip to advanced mechanisms for improved functionality, 

Toyo incorporates innovative elements that make their tools user-friendly and efficient.

Versatility is a notable characteristic of Toyo hand tools. 

The brand offers a diverse range of tools for various industries and applications. Whether it’s automotive, construction, or precision work, Toyo provides a comprehensive selection of tools to meet different needs. 

This wide range allows professionals to find the right tool for their specific tasks, ensuring optimal performance and versatility.

Toyo Co., Ltd has a solid reputation in the hand tools industry, known for their quality, precision, durability, and innovative designs. 

While their tools may come at a slightly higher price point compared to some other brands, the investment is often justified by the reliability and performance that Toyo tools offer.

In summary, Toyo Co., Ltd is a reputable Japanese hand tools brand that delivers precision, durability, innovation, and versatility. If you’re in search of high-quality tools that offer reliable performance and precise results, Toyo is a brand worth considering.

Key Features

• Precision engineering for accurate and reliable performance.
• Durability and high-quality materials for long-lasting use.
• Innovative designs and features for enhanced usability.
• Ergonomic handles for comfortable grip and reduced fatigue.
• Wide range of tools for various industries and applications.
• Meticulous craftsmanship for precise results.
• Versatility to meet different task requirements.
• Trusted brand with a strong reputation.
• Commitment to quality, durability, and performance.
• Continuous innovation to stay ahead in the industry.

Tsubosan

Tsubosan is a well-regarded Japanese brand known for its exceptional hand tools. With a rich history and a focus on craftsmanship, Tsubosan has established itself as a trusted name in the industry.

One of the notable features of Tsubosan hand tools is their commitment to traditional Japanese craftsmanship. 

The brand combines time-honored techniques with modern technology to produce tools of exceptional quality. 

Each tool is meticulously crafted, paying attention to every detail, resulting in tools that are reliable, precise, and durable.

Precision is a hallmark of Tsubosan hand tools. The brand understands the importance of accuracy in various tasks, and their tools are designed to deliver precise results. 

Whether it’s cutting tools, measuring instruments, or layout tools, Tsubosan tools are known for their accuracy and reliability, making them a preferred choice among professionals.

Durability is another key aspect of Tsubosan hand tools. The brand uses high-quality materials and rigorous manufacturing processes to ensure that their tools can withstand rigorous use. 

The tools are designed to be robust, capable of handling demanding work environments and providing long-lasting performance.

Tsubosan places a strong emphasis on user comfort and ergonomics. The brand understands that prolonged use of hand tools can lead to fatigue, and therefore, incorporates ergonomic features such as comfortable grips and well-balanced designs. 

These considerations enhance user comfort, reduce strain, and promote better productivity.

Tsubosan offers a diverse range of hand tools, catering to various industries and applications. Their product lineup includes a comprehensive selection of cutting tools, layout tools, measuring instruments, and more. 

This wide range allows professionals to find the right tool for their specific needs, ensuring optimal performance and versatility.

While Tsubosan hand tools are known for their quality and precision, it’s important to note that they may come at a higher price point compared to some other brands. 

However, the investment in Tsubosan tools is often justified by their exceptional craftsmanship, durability, and long-term value.

Key Features

• Traditional Japanese craftsmanship for exceptional quality.
• Precision engineering for accurate and reliable performance.
• High-quality materials for durability and long-lasting use.
• Ergonomic designs for user comfort and reduced fatigue.
• Wide range of tools for various industries and applications.
• Meticulous attention to detail in craftsmanship.
• Tools known for their accuracy and reliability.
• Robust construction to withstand demanding work environments.
• Trusted brand with a rich history.
• Commitment to quality, precision, and user satisfaction.

SUIZAN Japanese Pull Saw Hand Saw

We have all seen what a saw looks like. Well, this saw is totally different than the one you are familiar with and you might even be confused to see such a saw at first glance.

 Do not be fooled by its menacing look as it is a normal tool that is even easier to use than a conventional saw. Instead of pushing the teeth of the saw into the wood, you pull the teeth which require less effort than the former method. 

It is lighter in weight and the resulting cut is much smoother. It is made by Suizan who has a history of over 100 years of making hand tools using top quality Japanese steel. You should definitely own this as it’s one of the best Japanese hand tools.

 The blade is 9 ½ inches long and the overall length is 2 inches. It is easy to use whether you’re a master craftsman or a novice. What’s more, is that the blade can be detached and replaced with another blade anytime you like.

Key Features:

• Easier to use than conventional saw
• Requires less effort to use
• Lighter is weight
• Results in a smoother cut
• 9.5 inches long blade
• Can be used easily by a novice
• Detachable and replaceable blade

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9″ Shinto Saw Rasp

This tool consists of 10 hardened teeth saw blades that are held by rivets and have a coarse and fine side for those precision works. It can be used to carve spoons, handles, candelabras, and much more. 

The teeth are designed so that they do not clog and wood shavings pass right through. It is different from a traditional rasp but you will get used to it in no time and will see the advantages of it as well.

 It is one of the best Japanese hand tools that is suitable for rough, as well as fine work.

Key Features:

• Consists of 10 hardened teeth saw blades
• Precise
• Can be used to carve spoons, handles, and others
• Does not clog
• Different from a traditional rasp
• Suitable for both rough and fine work

Japanese Weeding Sickle Very Sharp Edge Quick Work

This weeder is made using high-quality carbon steel and can be easily sharpened using a simple file should the need arise. The weight is perfectly balanced so that you can achieve maximum yield at minimum force.

 Removing weeds with this tool is much easier and you don’t even have to stop there. You can use it in your flower beds and even remove hard soil. It has a 5-inch blade and the overall length is 13 inches.

It is also available in a left-handed version. It is one of the best Japanese hand tools.

Key Features:

• Made using high-quality carbon steel
• Can be sharpened with a simple file
• Easy to remove weeds with this tool
• Helpful in removing hard soil
• Also available in a left-hand version

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Nisaku NJP650 Hori-Hori Weeding & Digging Knife

This knife is one of the  best Japanese hand tools made with the finest Japanese stainless steel and is very smooth at its job. It consists of a concave blade that is useful for digging. It also comes with a sharp edge that is suitable for slicing.

The serrated opposite edge of the knife is suitable for cutting. It has inch markings along the bed so that you know exactly how deep you are planting your plants and bulbs. It has both serrated and straight edges and is fantastic for gardening, landscaping,  and camping.

The blade is rust and scratch-resistant and stays razor sharp longer than most tools available in the market in the same segment. The blade is 7.25 inches and the handle size is 5.25 inches. This will be one of your best buys as its one of the best Japanese hand tools.

 It comes with a faux leather sheath that can be attached to your belt for portability which makes it one of the best Japanese hand tools.

Key Features:

• Made with the finest Japanese stainless steel
• Comes with a concave blade for digging
• Comes with inch markings
• Rust and scratch-resistant blade
• Stays razor-sharp
• Comes with a faux leather sheath

WEI CHUAN 5″ Unfinished Beech Wood Mallet

This mallet is one of the  best Japanese hand tools made of unfinished beechwood which has high density. It is ideally balanced and can be used for striking chisels, crushing ice, installing objects, and much more.

The handle is tapered for extra grip and more strength with a length of 13 inches.

 The head is firmly secured and will never come off due to the tapered shape and is splinter-free and smooth. The width of the head is 5 inches. 

You can also buy used japanese woodworking tools if you don’t wish to invest a lot in best Japanese hand tools or Japanese woodworking tools.

Key Features:

• Made of unfinished beechwood
• Ideally balanced
• Perfect for striking chisels, crushing ice, and more
• Tapered handle for extra grip
• The Head is firmly secured
• Splinter free and smooth

BlueArrowExpress Kana Hoe 217

This is one of the best Japanese hand tools that has a super sharp blade made with high carbon steel which practically glides while you are using it. The size is small and therefore easier to handle than most other hoes.

It digs holes for planting, it takes out weeds by the root or shaves across the surface of the soil. It measures 10 inches overall and the blade measures 4.5-inch x 1.25 in and has a wooden handle. 

This is one of those traditional japanese tools that is amazing. It is one of the best japanese tool brands for best Japanese hand tools on Amazon.

Key Features:

• Super sharp blade made using high-quality carbon steel
• Small in size
• Easy to handle
• Great for different tasks
• Comes with a wooden handle

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Nisaku NJP1820 Scraper Weeder & Multitool

This tool is one of the best Japanese hand tools made with authentic Tomita stainless steel and built with the idea of an all-in-one functionality. It has a 3-inch wide blade with many functions: scraper edge, one cutting corner and one digging corner, serrated cutting edge.

 It can be used to weed sidewalks and patio cracks, cut weeds, scrape Moss, even soil, and more. The stainless steel is rust-resistant and a breeze to wash. 

It is an excellent weeder/ripper with teeth on one corner for tugging at roots, a short curved section of saw-teeth on the other, for thicker roots and branches. It is sturdy, has a good feel in the hand, and comes with a protective plastic sheath.

Key Features:

• Made with authentic Tomita stainless steel
• All in one functionality
• Rust resistant
• Easy to wash
• Sturdy
• Comes with a protective plastic sheath

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Nisaku by SunJoe NJP555 Handheld Claw Rake

A cultivator is used to loosen the soil before planting seeds or young seedlings. It helps in soil aeration so that nutrients can enter all the way down to the roots. It is one of the best Japanese hand tools made from authentic Tomita stainless steel and will last for many seasons. 

It is constructed with a shank that is forged in one piece to the blade. It is not simply welded and then secured to the handle with steel rivets. This ensures your cultivator is extremely long-lasting, does not bend easily, and has quite a lot of digging power.

The prongs are 4.75 inches long and the handle is polished, durable, and easy to grip. It is an essential tool for any gardener and can be used by experienced professionals and even novices. 

Key Features:

• Made from authentic Tomita stainless steel
• Durable
• Bend resistant
• Excellent digging powers
• Polished handle that has a good grip

Which is the best Japanese hand tool brand?

I’ve used many of the best Japanese hand tools because of gardening and woodworking purposes. I found Japanese Weeding Sickle to be the best because of its properties, size and multi-functions.

Japanese Weeding Sickle Very Sharp Edge Quick Work is made using high-quality carbon steel and can be sharpened with a simple file. This tool makes weed removal easy and is also helpful in removing hard soil. It is also available in a left-hand version. 

Are Japanese hand tools any good?

Japanese hand tools are renowned for their quality, precision, and durability. They are crafted with meticulous attention to detail, offer precise performance, and are built to withstand heavy use. Japanese brands prioritize ergonomic designs for user comfort and reduce fatigue. Overall, Japanese hand tools are highly regarded for their reliability and longevity.

Are Japanese chisels worth the money?

Japanese chisels are worth the money due to their exceptional quality, sharpness, and durability. They are meticulously crafted, offer precise cutting performance, and retain their edges for extended use. With ergonomic handles for comfort, Japanese chisels provide long-term value.

Japanese Hand Tools

These were some of the best Japanese hand tools that you can check out to make your job a lot easier. These hand tools are highly ergonomic and help you with all your chores. These Japanese hand tools are also extremely durable and will last you a long time. 

The unique designs also pull you towards it. So, what are you waiting for? Get these Japanese hand tools today!

Also Read:

1. Best Japanese Kitchen Gadgets