This extended documentary takes viewers into the daily life and impressive craftsmanship of a 69-year-old Japanese blacksmith at Nakamura Blacksmith in Miyazaki Prefecture. Renowned for his extraordinary productivity, the craftsman creates over 1000 knives a day, a feat that highlights both his mastery of the blacksmithing trade and the persistence of traditional Japanese techniques in modern times.

The video provides an in-depth look at each step of the knife-making process, from forging and hammering steel to molding the blade and utilizing an automatic sharpening machine. Notably, the blacksmith is joined by his son in the workshop, demonstrating the generational passing down of skills and the strong family bonds that sustain such traditional crafts. Viewers get a close-up look at unique elements of the process, such as correcting blade bends and perfecting sharpness, which underline the detail-oriented nature of Japanese blacksmithing.

Beyond technical skill, the film delves into the craftsman’s relationship with his customers, his daily routines, and his personal preferences—like enjoying shochu and curry for lunch. These details bring warmth and personality to the portrait of a craftsman dedicated to both quality and efficiency. Nakamura Blacksmith serves not only as a maker of tools but as a cultural touchstone in Miyazaki’s local economy, sustaining traditional techniques that have been refined over generations.

Miyazaki Prefecture, located on Kyushu Island, is known for its natural beauty and agricultural products, but is also home to a deep tradition of artisan crafts such as knife and blade making. Blacksmith shops like Nakamura play a key role in preserving the region’s skilled craftsmanship, attracting both culinary professionals and enthusiasts seeking authentic Japanese cutlery.