Japanese Woodworking Tools

Crafted for Fine Joinery and Timber Work

Explore our curated range of Japanese woodworking tools built for accuracy, balance, and fine craftsmanship.
Each piece is designed for Australian woodworkers who value precision and the traditional methods of Japanese joinery.


Every tool is hand-forged in Japan using time-tested techniques for superior control, edge retention, and longevity.
From kanna planes and chisels to saws and marking tools, each item reflects the skill of Japanese makers dedicated to their craft.


You can also explore our
Vintage Woodwork Tools
collection for restored Japanese tools with timeless character, or start a project with the
Cypress Spoon Carving Set
— a complete beginner’s kit for carving and shaping timber at home.


All orders ship from Perth with local support and careful inspection before dispatch.

Why Japanese Woodworking Tools Still Stand Out


Traditional Japanese woodworking tools were refined over centuries of temple building, joinery and furniture making. Carpenters relied on kanna planes, chisels and pull saws that were compact, sharp and easy to control, so they could cut clean joints in dense timber without relying on heavy machinery. Many of the tools in this collection still follow those patterns, using laminated blades and carefully fitted wooden handles that suit long hours at the bench.


If you enjoy shaping smaller details, our range of
Japanese carving knives
gives you the same level of control at a finer scale. Compact blades, keen edges and comfortable handles make them ideal for spoon carving, relief work and precise joinery layout. They pair well with this collection for anyone building boxes, furniture or timber fixtures that call for crisp lines and clean surfaces.


A key reason these tools perform so well is the steel. Many are made from forged carbon steel that can be sharpened quickly and brought back to a very fine edge. For a deeper look at why this matters in day to day use, you can read our
guide to forged carbon steel,
which explains edge retention, ease of sharpening and how to care for reactive blades in an Australian workshop.


When you are ready to move into more detailed hand work, you can add one or two
small Japanese carving knives
to this core set of planes, chisels and saws. Together they cover rough stock removal, accurate layout and fine finishing, giving you a complete hand tool kit for traditional and modern timber projects.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference with Japanese pull saws, and which should I choose?

Japanese saws cut on the pull stroke for a thin, precise kerf and excellent control. Use a crosscut (yokobiki) for cuts across the grain, a rip (tatebiki) for along the grain, or a ryoba to have both on one blade. Use light pressure and let the teeth do the work.

Are these tools suitable for Australian hardwoods?

Yes. Japanese tools perform beautifully on dense hardwoods when sharpened well. For chisels and plane irons, aim for a 30° bevel. Keep edges keen and take thin shavings; let the steel do the work.

What sharpening setup do I need to maintain them?

A simple water-stone progression works: 1000 grit for shaping and repairs, 3000–4000 for refinement, and 6000–8000 for a polished edge. Keep stones flat with a lapping plate. Finish with a light strop, then apply a thin coat of camellia oil.

Tools that sharpen, not replace

Built for longevity. Proper care reduces waste and improves performance over time.

Care guide

Crafted in Japan

Forged by skilled makers using time-honoured techniques. We buy direct from small workshops.

Fast dispatch from Perth

Orders placed before 12pm ship same day from Perth. Delivery times vary by location.

Shipping policy

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