From the Makers
From Japan's Tsubame-Sanjo — a city of tradition and innovation — we bring you accessible artisan quality
The first SUIZAN product, a saw, is crafted by Nakaya Co., Ltd., a specialist maker of replaceable-blade saws and sharpening machines based in Tsubame-Sanjo, Niigata, Japan, a region long renowned for its fine metalwork.
Sharing SUIZAN’s concept
— “Delivering the spirit of Japanese craftsmanship to the world” —
Nakaya has partnered with us since 2017, developing and producing a wide range of saws together.
The Process of Making SUIZAN Saws
Let's take a look at the journey of SUIZAN saws, from raw materials to the finished products.
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1.Pressing
A continuous coil of steel is pressed through precision molds to punch out the exact outline of each saw blade.
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2.Deburring
Any sharp burrs formed during pressing are ground away to create a smooth, clean edge.
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3.Straightening
Any curvature in the raw steel is carefully evened out with rollers, ensuring every blade lies perfectly flat.
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4.Tooth Setting and Sharpening
This is a crucial process where each individual tooth is filed and shaped to adjust its angle and form, which enhances the blade's sharpness.
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5.Inspection of Tooth Setting
Using a projector and magnifier, skilled craftsmen check the height and angle of every tooth with their trained eyes.
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6.Setting the Kerf
Each tooth is minutely bent outward to both sides, allowing the blade to cut smoothly without binding in the material.
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7.Hardening
The blade edges are heated in an instant and rapidly cooled, producing a hard, razor-sharp cutting edge.
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8.Printing
The SUIZAN logo is printed onto each blade and cured with ultraviolet light for durability.
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9.Blade Inspection
Every single blade is inspected by hand and by sight to ensure consistent quality.
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10.Oiling
Each blade is coated with a fine layer of protective oil to prevent rust.
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11.Assembly
The blade and handle are precisely fitted together by experienced hands.
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12.Final Alignment Check
A last visual and tactile inspection ensures there are no bends or defects in the finished saws.
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13.Packaging
Each saw is wiped clean, carefully wrapped, and packaged for shipment.
At Nakaya Saw Manufacturing Co., Ltd., they actively incorporate advanced machinery to achieve higher precision, consistency, and productivity.
Each SUIZAN saw is the result of a harmonious fusion of cutting-edge technology and the discerning hands and eyes of master craftsmen — achieving professional-grade quality at a price that remains within reach.
Inheriting a Craftsman’s Philosophy — Pursuing the True Ease of Use
We spoke with Mr. Yamaya, who oversees the production of SUIZAN products at Nakaya Saw Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
“When I first started this job,” Yamaya recalls, “I didn’t really understand saws at all. The products I developed didn’t sell — and looking back now, I realize I hadn’t even considered things like sharpness or handle design.”
A photo of one of the early products, which struggled to sell at the time.
“Over time, I studied within the company, researched online, but the most memorable moment was learning the ‘philosophy of sharpening’ (the art of metate) from a craftsman in Kyoto. Absorbing his way of thinking changed everything — it’s what shaped who I am today.”
From wood and plastic to frozen tuna, blocks of ice for shaved desserts, and even saws used in veterinary medicine — Yamaya has crafted saws for purposes far beyond imagination.
The Art of Precision — Sharpening a 0.2mm Ultra-Thin Blade
Among all the processes of making a saw, the one Nakaya values most is “metate” — the delicate art of tooth shaping and sharpening. Just a slight difference in angle can completely change the cutting performance.
“Even the smallest change in angle makes a huge difference.” says Yamaya. “So we fine-tune it depending on the saw’s intended use.”
Nakaya also handles small saws for traditional Japanese latticework (kumiko) which use ultra-thin 0.2mm blades. These thin blades require exceptional care and precision.
“When the blade is small, detailed, and that thin, even automated machines can break down or stop. We have to handle it with the utmost care.”
A world-first dovetail saw for kumiko work, crafted from premium 0.2mm steel.
Constantly Improving Through Active Research of Competitors' Products
“We also study the good points of other companies’ products.” says Yamaya. “When I find something impressive, I carefully examine its tooth design and use it as a reference for our own improvements.”
Of course, simply copying others has no meaning. Nakaya always seeks to create something original, new forms of usability and innovation born from daily refinement.
“Compared to the past, professional carpenters use fewer hand tools now.” Yamaya explains. “Today, most of our customers are people who enjoy DIY.”
Responding to changing times and user needs — that adaptability is one of Nakaya’s greatest strengths.
Reviews from Around the World Provide Our Support
“When something I’ve made goes out into the world, and people actually use it and appreciate it — that’s when I truly feel glad I made it. It’s deeply rewarding to know that our work has been recognized.”
Today, SUIZAN products are sold in over 40 countries, with more than 35,000 customer reviews. Many of them are high ratings — authentic voices from real users that reach the very hands that craft each saw, becoming a daily source of motivation for the makers.
“As the one who makes them, reading positive reviews always lifts my spirits — it keeps me motivated to do even better.”
"Among the reviews, we receive many encouraging comments, such as: 'Japanese quality is so excellent, I can't go back to using foreign-made saws.'"
“When I see so many people buying and using the tools I’ve made, it really makes me feel — I’m glad I devoted myself to this craft.”
Every saw that leaves Nakaya carries the quiet satisfaction of its makers — a reflection of dedication, precision, and genuine joy in creation. Each positive review is more than just feedback; it’s a bridge that connects Japanese craftsmanship to the hands of users around the world.
Tsubame-Sanjo — A Town United by Craftsmanship
One of the greatest strengths of Tsubame-Sanjo is its deeply interconnected community of artisans and factories, allowing for a seamless, end-to-end production system within the region.
From metal processing and plating to knife making — this town gathers true professionals across many crafts.
"It’s easy to collaborate with other companies here." says Yamaya. "There's a lot of open communication and exchange of ideas. Even with industries unrelated to saws, I often get hints and inspiration. And even if we can't make something alone, we can create it together as a community."
This deep local network continues to expand the horizon of what craftsmanship in Japan can achieve.
For a Better Start, Choose a Japanese-Made Saw
To truly understand how people use saws, and what they need, Yamaya believes in hands-on experience.
“It’s only when I actually try cutting myself,” he says, “that I realize my idea of 'metate' might be wrong. You can’t know a tool’s strengths or flaws unless you use it yourself.”
Today, Nakaya mainly develops saws for woodworking, but they are also looking to expand into pruning and specialized applications in the future.
“I joined Nakaya because I’ve always loved making things.” Yamaya reflects.
“At first, I knew nothing about saws and faced many challenges. But now, when a customer requests something new, I can clearly picture the kind of saw we can create for them.”
Sharing Japan's Dedication to Quality, Worldwide
Each SUIZAN saw is infused with the philosophy and skill of Japanese craftsmen, born from their genuine passion for their users.
“Japanese-made saws are easy for beginners to handle.” says Yamaya. “They’re perfect for anyone starting out, and I hope people who enjoy.”
The voices of users from around the world continue to inspire the next creation.
When someone says, “I can never go back to overseas saws after using a SUIZAN.” that is the greatest honor — and the pride of SUIZAN.
SUIZAN continues to connect the hearts of Japanese craftsmen with creators across the world — one blade, one cut, one story at a time.