The History of Masakuni

The bonsai tool originator Masakuni Co. Ltd has almost a century of experience in producing quality bonsai training tools.

Over 80 years ago a pair of specially designed shears was brought to the Bonsai world by an enthusiast after long years of experience and research. His name was Shichinosuke Kawasumi, the Masakuni 1st, who was a well known manufacturer of flower arrangement scissors and medical cutting tools. These shears were the original shears in Japan specifically designed for bonsai training. Since then Shichinosuke threw himself into the development of bonsai tools and began co-operative research with Mr Kyuzo Murata, the famous bonsai master of Kyuka-en in Omiya Bonsai village. Their research has borne the fruit we enjoy today in the shape of Masakuni bonsai tools.

Since this time, three generations of the same family have devoted their time to developing Masakuni as the premier supplier of specialised bonsai tools. The outstanding sharpness and durability of Masakuni’s tools is based on the original manufacturing techniques first employed, those same forging techniques used in the manufacture of Samurai sword. This has been combined with modern day science and quality control to produce a superior product. Using the highest quality pure steel, experienced craftsmen forge the tools completely, trained to employ the special methods of heat treatment and blade design. At all stages throughout construction the tools are checked and adjusted to ensure that the Masakuni tradition of highest quality, reliability, durability and originality are preserved.

The history of Masakuni Bonsai tools is the history of Bonsai tools in the world!