Kakumei Canberra

Kakumei Canberra brings authentic Japanese craftsmanship to the heart of Braddon, offering a carefully curated selection of premium homeware, kitchenware, and tableware. Located at 32 Lonsdale Street, this specialty home goods store is the sister shop of Sydney's renowned professional Japanese kitchen knife retailer, Knives and Stones. The Canberra showroom is a destination for anyone seeking high-quality, handcrafted items imported directly from Japan, from exquisite Edo Kiriko crystal glasses to hand-forged kitchen knives.

Kakumei's commitment to authenticity sets it apart. Owner James travels to Japan multiple times a year to personally select every item, ensuring each piece meets a high standard of craftsmanship and represents the best of Japanese design. This direct-from-Japan approach means customers in Canberra can access unique, artisan-made products that are rarely found outside specialist Japanese districts.

Product Range at Kakumei Canberra

The store's collection spans several key categories, each showcasing the depth of Japanese manufacturing tradition. Whether you are a professional chef, a home cooking enthusiast, or someone who appreciates fine tableware, the Braddon showroom offers a diverse inventory.

Japanese Kitchen Knives

A standout category at Kakumei is the extensive range of handcrafted Japanese kitchen knives. The store stocks knives from respected brands including Hatsukokoro, Nigara, Sakai Takayuki, and many others. Styles include:

• Gyuto (Chef's Knife): The versatile all-purpose knife for everyday cooking.
• Santoku (All-Purpose): A popular multi-use blade ideal for vegetables, fish, and meat.
• Nakiri (Vegetable Knife): A thin, rectangular blade designed for precise vegetable chopping.
• Petty (Utility Knife): A small, handy blade for delicate tasks and garnishes.
• Sujihiki (Slicing Knife): A long, narrow blade perfect for slicing raw fish and roast meats.
• Deba (Fish Cutting): A heavy, thick-spined knife for filleting and preparing fish.
• Chuka Bocho (Chinese Cleaver): A versatile cleaver-style knife used for chopping, slicing, and smashing.

Many blades feature traditional finishes like Kurouchi (black forge finish) and Tsuchime (hammered pattern), with steel types including Aogami Super, SG2, and Ginsan. The store caters to both double-bevel and single-bevel enthusiasts.

Tableware & Ceramics

Kakumei's tableware selection transforms everyday dining into an art form. The store carries plates, bowls, and mugs from renowned Japanese kilns, including colorful Kutani ware, known for its vivid overglaze paintings featuring floral patterns, landscapes, and animal motifs. Customers can also find elegant sake sets, teacups, and complete dinnerware sets. The attention to detail in each piece—from the brushstroke of a Kutani plate to the texture of a hand-thrown bowl—reflects centuries of ceramic tradition.

Edo Kiriko Crystal Glassware

One of the most remarkable collections at Kakumei is the Edo Kiriko crystal glassware. This traditional Tokyo craft involves cutting delicate patterns into layers of colored crystal. The store offers whisky glasses, sake cups, rock glasses, and wine glasses from master artisans like Junichi Nabetani and the Kagami Crystal studio. With patterns like "Flowing Stream" (清流) and "Shogun" (将軍), each piece is a functional work of art, priced to reflect the hundreds of hours of skill required to produce them.

Lifestyle & Home Decor

Beyond the kitchen, Kakumei provides a selection of Japanese lifestyle items. These include Nambu ironware cast iron kettles, incense sticks from Nippon Kodo, and decorative items from Nousaku, a Takaoka copperware and tinware studio. The store also stocks Japanese chopsticks, including collectible designs featuring the Great Wave off Kanagawa, cherry blossoms, and other iconic motifs. For outdoor enthusiasts, a range of Japanese BBQ Konro grills and related accessories is available.

Customer Reviews and Store Experience

Kakumei Canberra holds a strong reputation among its patrons, reflected in a 4.9-star rating on Google Maps based on 27 reviews. The feedback consistently highlights the beauty of the products and the welcoming atmosphere of the store.

Google Maps reviewers praise the exceptional knife selection. One customer, Lenny Preston, noted that "the knives I purchased there are super sharp and stay that way," emphasizing that the blades are sourced directly from Japanese manufacturers. Another reviewer, Tianyu Fu, described Kakumei as "undoubtedly the best Japanese homeware store in Canberra!" specifically calling out the "fantastic collection of handcrafted Japanese knives — a wide range of styles, excellent quality, and very affordable prices."

The tableware also receives high marks. Local Guide CH FU shared an enthusiastic review after a chance discovery: "Today I stumbled across this beautiful Japanese tableware store and I'm so glad I stopped by! The plates are truly dreamlike and the atmosphere is very welcoming. The staff were also very friendly." This sentiment of a warm, inviting environment appears consistently, suggesting a shopping experience that goes beyond a simple retail transaction.

Kakumei Canberra in Braddon

The store is situated at 32 Lonsdale Street in Braddon, a suburb known for its evolving mix of residential, retail, and dining spaces just north of Canberra's city centre. The Braddon showroom provides a dedicated space to browse the full range of Japanese home goods that originally grew out of the Sydney-based Knives and Stones operation. Its location places it within easy reach of Canberra's inner north, accessible by public transport and with local cycling routes nearby. The showroom operates from 10:30 AM to 4:30 PM, Wednesday through Sunday, making it an ideal weekend destination for those looking to add artisanal pieces to their home.

Shopping, Delivery and Returns

Kakumei Canberra offers a seamless shopping experience both in-store and through its website, kakumei.com.au. The online store showcases the full catalog with detailed product descriptions and high-resolution images. Orders can be placed for delivery across Australia. The store also offers a delivery service for customers who prefer to shop locally without visiting the showroom.

Kakumei provides a straightforward returns policy: returns within 10 days of purchase are eligible for a full refund, giving customers confidence when selecting premium knives or delicate crystal. For any questions, the Canberra store can be reached by phone at +61 2 8234 8808, or through the contact form on the website.

Common Questions

Does Kakumei Canberra sell authentic Japanese kitchen knives?

Yes. Kakumei's knives are sourced directly from Japanese manufacturers and master blacksmiths. Brands carried include Hatsukokoro, Nigara, and Sakai Takayuki, among others.

What are Kakumei Canberra's opening hours?

Kakumei Canberra is open Wednesday through Sunday, from 10:30 AM to 4:30 PM. The store is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Does Kakumei Canberra offer knife sharpening services?

Contact Kakumei directly to inquire about knife sharpening or maintenance services available in Canberra.

Can I order from Kakumei online for delivery in Australia?

Yes, the full product range is available on kakumei.com.au, with delivery options across Australia. The website includes detailed product specifications and secure checkout.

What is Kakumei's returns policy?

Kakumei accepts returns within 10 days of purchase for a full refund, provided items are in their original condition.

Does Kakumei sell gift cards?

Yes, gift cards are available for purchase on the Kakumei website, perfect for anyone who appreciates Japanese craftsmanship.

Where is Kakumei Canberra located?

The showroom is at 32 Lonsdale Street, Braddon ACT 2612, in Canberra's inner north.

When searching for distinctive, high-quality home goods in the Australian Capital Territory, Kakumei Canberra offers a focused and authentic Japanese retail experience. Compare its product range, reviews, and policies with other specialty stores on Ilistify before deciding on your next purchase.